Baker Salary in Vancouver, WA
Bakers in Vancouver, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.85 per hour, which translates to about $754.00 per week, $3,267.33 per month, and $39,208.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Vancouver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the baking industry for the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Baker in Vancouver varies based on experience and employer, with entry-level salaries starting lower and top earners making more due to expertise and skill level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.47 | $658.80 | $2,849.73 | $34,188.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.85 | $754.00 | $3,267.33 | $39,208.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.59 | $863.60 | $3,732.93 | $44,867.20 |
Do Bakers in Vancouver, WA Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their role is typically behind the scenes and does not involve direct customer service. Their income mostly comes from their wages alone.
Baker Salary in Vancouver, WA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn around $18.85 per hour on average, which translates to about $39,208.00 per year.
In Vancouver, WA, Bakers earn approximately the same as the national average, with an hourly wage of $18.85 and annual pay of $39,208.00, reflecting a competitive wage rate aligned with broader U.S. standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver, WA for Bakers
Several nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Bakers, such as:
- Downtown Vancouver: $19.50 per hour
- Fisher's Landing: $20.00 per hour
Bakers working in Fisher's Landing tend to earn the highest wages among these locales, which can provide greater earning potential with a short commute.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Vancouver, WA?
Several important elements can affect how much a Baker earns in Vancouver:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with significant experience or specialized skills, such as artisan bread or pastry making, typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty shops generally pays better compared to grocery store bakeries or fast-casual chains.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or certifications can increase earning potential.
- Shift Scheduling: Working early mornings or late shifts might include shift differentials that increase wages.
- Local Economic Factors: Vancouver's proximity to larger metro areas and overall living costs also impact salary ranges.
How To Become a Baker in Vancouver, WA
Starting a career as a Baker in Vancouver involves several steps useful for gaining skills and employment:
- Enroll in Culinary or Baking Programs: Consider programs such as the Clark College Culinary Arts Program which offers comprehensive training including pastry and baking courses.
- Explore Nearby Schools: The Oregon Culinary Institute in Portland provides specialized baking and pastry education focusing on various techniques, valuable for Bakers looking to expand skill sets.
- Obtain Required Food Safety Permits: A Food Handler's Permit is required by Washington State, ensuring knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Gain Certifications: The Certified Baker (CB) credential offered by the Retail Bakers of America can demonstrate professional competence and dedication.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Vancouver, WA
Some of the prominent employers in Vancouver actively hiring Bakers include:
- Panera Bread
- Fred Meyer
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Bakers in Vancouver, WA Work At
Bakers in Vancouver typically find opportunities in a variety of foodservice environments, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Places where quick service and volume are key, may offer steady but moderate wages.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: These often pay higher salaries due to skilled craftsmanship and quality focus.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Many employ bakers for producing fresh baked goods on a larger scale, often with competitive benefits.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger institutions that may provide better pay and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment largely influences the salary, with specialty bakeries and hotels generally offering more attractive compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver, WA for Bakers
If you're exploring careers related to Baking, consider these similar professions that share culinary and hospitality skills:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, roles that work closely with baking skills but differ in specialization and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Vancouver, WA
Bakers should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure compliance and awareness of their rights and responsibilities:
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching standards.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for state-specific labor laws, wage info, and workplace rights.
- For local regulations and resources, the Official website of the City of Vancouver is useful.