Baker Salary in Topeka, KS
Bakers in Topeka, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $16.49 per hour, which translates to about $659.60 per week, $2,858.27 per month, and $34,299.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Topeka is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market and expanding opportunities for those skilled in baking and pastry arts in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Topeka, KS?
The salary of a Baker in Topeka varies depending on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.02 | $560.80 | $2,423.47 | $29,129.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.49 | $659.60 | $2,858.27 | $34,299.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.39 | $775.60 | $3,360.27 | $40,231.20 |
Do Bakers in Topeka Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work mainly happens behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their income relies primarily on their wages rather than gratuities.
Baker Salary in Topeka vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, which equates to approximately $34,944 per year.
Comparing this to Topeka, Bakers earn slightly below the national average, with an hourly wage of $16.49 and an annual salary of about $34,299.20.
Differences in living costs and regional demand contribute to these variations in salary.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Topeka for Bakers
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Bakers:
- Downtown Topeka: $17.00 per hour
- Westboro: $16.75 per hour
Bakers working in Downtown Topeka tend to earn the highest wages in the region, making it a favorable area for job seekers.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Topeka?
The salary of a Baker in Topeka is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Bakers with specialty skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Bakers at upscale bakeries or specialized pastry shops generally earn more than those in supermarkets or fast-casual settings.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or being a Certified Pastry Culinarian can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bakers working early mornings or weekends might receive shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Salaries can vary due to local demand and cost of living adjustments.
How To Become a Baker in Topeka
To pursue a career as a Baker in Topeka, consider the following steps:
- Complete Formal Training: Enroll in programs like the Washburn Tech Culinary Arts Program for hands-on baking experience or the Topeka Baking Academy for artisan bread and pastry techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquire credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to meet industry health and safety standards.
- Earn Specialized Certifications: Consider certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) to demonstrate advanced pastry skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in local bakeries or restaurants to build proficiency and a professional network.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Topeka
Several prominent employers in Topeka are frequently seeking Bakers, including:
- Panera Bread
- Schlotzsky's
- Sam's Club
Establishments That Bakers in Topeka Work At
Bakers in Topeka typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These may offer steady work with moderate wages.
- Specialty Bakeries: Usually provide higher pay due to the level of skill required for artisan and specialty baked goods.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often employ Bakers for high-volume production with consistent but sometimes lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger organizations may offer better compensation and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Baker’s salary, with specialty and upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Topeka for Bakers
If you are interested in related career paths, consider these positions that share similar skill sets:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, which involve advanced culinary skills and often different levels of responsibility and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Topeka
Bakers in Topeka should be aware of the local and federal labor laws as well as tax obligations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Kansas official website provides resources related to state employment laws and labor standards.
- Local employment regulations and resources are available at the City of Topeka's official website.