Baker Salary in Upper Darby, PA
Bakers in Upper Darby, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Upper Darby is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and a thriving industry for baking professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Upper Darby, PA?
The salary of a Baker in Upper Darby varies by experience and employer, offering different earning potentials from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bakers in Upper Darby Earn Tips?
Bakers in Upper Darby generally do not earn tips since their roles are primarily focused on preparation and baking behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is mainly based on hourly wages or salaries.
Baker Salary in Upper Darby vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Bakers is $16.80, with an annual average salary of about $34,944.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Upper Darby earn less, reflecting regional differences in cost of living and market demand, with hourly wages at about $13.90 and annual salaries around $28,912.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper Darby for Bakers
Nearby areas tend to offer slightly different compensation:
- Drexel Hill: $15.50 per hour
- Ardmore: $17.60 per hour
Bakers in Ardmore enjoy the highest wages among these locations, making it a desirable place for baking professionals seeking higher earnings near Upper Darby.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Upper Darby?
Several factors greatly influence the earnings of a Baker in Upper Darby:
- Experience and Expertise: Bakers with extensive experience and advanced skills, such as artisan bread making or pastry specialization, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at specialty bakeries or upscale restaurants can offer better pay compared to supermarket bakeries or fast casual outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary education or certifications like the Certified Baker credential enhance employability and earning potential.
- Work Schedule and Shifts: Bakers working early morning, night, or weekend shifts may earn additional compensation through shift differentials.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Regional economic conditions and living costs also play roles in determining wages.
How To Become a Baker in Upper Darby
Individuals interested in a baking career in Upper Darby can take several steps to prepare:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the Delaware County Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive baking and pastry education, equipping students with practical skills.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College offers targeted pastry arts courses emphasizing traditional and modern techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for food handling roles.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Baker (CB) credential from the Retail Bakers of America demonstrates proficiency and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as an apprentice or assistant baker helps build hands-on skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Upper Darby
Bakers in Upper Darby are often hired by well-known food providers and retailers including:
- Panera Bread
- Giant Food Stores
- Acme Markets
Establishments That Bakers in Upper Darby Work At
Bakers in Upper Darby are employed in various settings that impact their pay and responsibilities:
- Specialty Bakeries: These offer creative baking roles focused on artisan breads and pastries, often paying higher wages.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains typically employ Bakers for high-volume production, providing steady but usually moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Casual Restaurants: Such establishments may have bakeries or dessert preparation with competitive compensation.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These usually provide diverse baking opportunities with potential for higher salaries and benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment often influence salary scales and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper Darby for Bakers
If you're exploring roles similar to Baker, consider these related positions that share overlapping skills:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions — roles that involve advanced culinary skills and leadership in kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Upper Darby
Bakers in Upper Darby should be familiar with important labor laws and tax guidelines that affect their employment:
- For state-level regulations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
- Federal tax information and tax filing guidelines are available at the Internal Revenue Service website.
- For comprehensive federal resources, see the Official U.S. government website.