Baker Salary in Tucson, AZ
Bakers in Tucson, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.94 per hour, which translates to about $717.60 per week, $3,109.60 per month, and $37,315.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Tucson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in this field annually.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Tucson, AZ?
The salary of a Baker in Tucson varies with experience levels, with entry-level to top earners seeing substantial differences in pay.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,548.00 | $30,576.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.94 | $717.60 | $3,109.60 | $37,315.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.07 | $842.80 | $3,645.87 | $43,825.60 |
Do Bakers in Tucson Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly performed behind the scenes and involves preparing baked goods rather than direct customer service.
Baker Salary in Tucson vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $17.60 per hour, which translates to approximately $36,608 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Tucson earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $17.94 and an annual salary of $37,315.20, likely influenced by regional market conditions and costs of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tucson for Bakers
Some nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Bakers:
- Downtown Tucson: $18.50 per hour
- Catalina Foothills: $19.00 per hour
Bakers working in Catalina Foothills can expect the highest wages among nearby areas, reflecting the demand for skilled bakers in that region.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Tucson?
Various factors impact how much a Baker can earn in Tucson:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bakers with advanced skills in artisan or specialty baking command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Bakers working in upscale bakeries or specialty pastry shops generally earn more than those in supermarkets or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications such as the Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America or ServSafe Food Handler Certification can positively affect pay.
- Hours and Shift Differentials: Early morning or overnight shifts may offer additional compensation.
- Local Demand: Bakers in areas with higher demand and fewer qualified individuals may negotiate better pay.
How To Become a Baker in Tucson
Starting a career as a Baker in Tucson involves several key steps:
- Professional Training: Enroll in programs such as the Pima Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers hands-on baking experience for beginners.
- Advanced Education: Consider the Art Institute of Tucson Baking & Pastry Program for advanced techniques and creative skill development.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America can enhance employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as an apprentice or bakery assistant helps in developing essential baking skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Tucson
Tucson’s baking job market features prominent employers that regularly hire Bakers, including:
- Bashas' Supermarkets
- Albertsons
- Safeway
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Bakers in Tucson Work At
Bakers in Tucson typically find opportunities in diverse establishments, such as:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These establishments often offer higher wages, valuing craft and quality.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often employ bakers for breads, desserts, and other baked goods, with moderate pay scales.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains like Bashas' or Safeway employ bakers for volume production, usually with steady but moderate salaries.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These may pay more due to volume and specialty demand.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the salary earned by Bakers in Tucson.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tucson for Bakers
If you are interested in similar roles to being a Baker, consider related careers that share overlapping skills and environments.
These include Banquet Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, which involve culinary expertise related to baking.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Tucson
Bakers should be familiar with employment regulations and tax obligations relevant to their position in Tucson.
- Refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for detailed federal labor statistics and occupational information.
- Consult the Arizona Department of Economic Security at azdes.gov for state-specific employment laws and workforce resources.
- Tucson-specific employment regulations can be found on the City of Tucson official website.