Baker Salary in Thornton, CO
Bakers in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.09 per hour, which translates to about $683.60 per week, $2,962.27 per month, and $35,547.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the bakery and pastry arts industry in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Baker in Thornton can vary depending on experience and employer type, but here is a general overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,563.33 | $30,716.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.09 | $683.60 | $2,962.27 | $35,547.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.45 | $898.00 | $3,883.33 | $46,696.00 |
Do Bakers in Thornton, CO Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since they primarily work behind the scenes rather than in direct customer service roles. Their earnings rely mostly on wages and salaries without significant tip income.
Baker Salary in Thornton, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Thornton, CO earn slightly more on average, with an hourly wage of $17.09 and an annual salary of $35,547.20. This reflects a competitive local job market and possibly higher cost-of-living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton, CO for Bakers
Nearby cities offer a range of salaries for Bakers that you may consider if you are open to relocation or commuting:
- Denver: $20.56 per hour
- Longmont: $18.79 per hour
Denver offers the highest pay among nearby cities, reflecting its larger market and demand for skilled bakers, while Longmont also provides better-than-average wages compared to Thornton.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Thornton, CO?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how much Bakers earn in Thornton, CO:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with years of experience and expertise in specialty breads or pastries can command higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Working in upscale bakeries, hotels, or restaurants often pays more than positions in chain grocery stores or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as the Certified Baker (CB) or completion of formal baking programs can boost salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bakers working night or early morning shifts may receive shift differentials, positively affecting earnings.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand for bakery products in Thornton influence wage levels.
How To Become a Baker in Thornton, CO
If you are interested in starting a career as a Baker in Thornton, here are some practical steps to consider:
- Formal Education: Enroll in a baking program such as those offered by Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver or the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, which provide hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain a ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices, an often necessary credential in the industry.
- Professional Certification: Pursue the Certified Baker (CB) credential from the Retail Bakers of America to validate your baking skills and enhance employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in bakeries or pastry shops to build on-the-job skills and work your way up.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Thornton, CO
Prominent employers in the area looking for Bakers include:
- Crumbl Cookies Franchises
- Panera Bread
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Bakers in Thornton, CO Work At
Bakers in Thornton find employment across various types of establishments, each influencing their pay level:
- Specialty Artisan Bakeries: Often offer the highest wages due to the craft and specialized skills required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Employ Bakers for dessert preparation and bread products, usually offering moderate wages.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains like Whole Foods Market employ bakers for volume production with consistent but typically mid-range salaries.
- Hotel and Catering Services: Baker positions here often offer higher pay with the possibility of tips and benefits.
Each establishment type brings different levels of responsibility and skill requirements, affecting Bakers’ overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton, CO for Bakers
If you are exploring careers similar to that of a Baker, here are some related roles you might consider:
These related positions include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which involve comparable culinary skills and provide alternative career paths in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Thornton, CO
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Bakers working in Thornton, CO:
- Refer to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website for comprehensive labor statistics and occupational data.
- Consult the Colorado state government website for information on state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and employment regulations.