Pastry Chef Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $17.21 per hour, which translates to about $688.40 per week, $2,983.07 per month, and $35,796.80 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for skilled pastry professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Albuquerque can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.64 | $585.60 | $2,530.40 | $31,219.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.21 | $688.40 | $2,983.07 | $35,796.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.24 | $809.60 | $3,483.47 | $41,299.20 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips since their work is mainly behind the scenes, focusing on the creation and preparation of pastries rather than direct customer service. Their income usually comes from salary or hourly wages solely.
Pastry Chef Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $20.24 per hour, translating to about $42,099.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque earn a lower hourly wage ($17.21) and an annual salary of about $35,796.80. This difference can be linked to lower living costs and regional market variations in Albuquerque.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Pastry Chefs
Pastry Chef salaries in nearby areas of Albuquerque differ slightly:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Nob Hill: $19.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Nob Hill tend to earn more than those in Downtown, reflecting local market demand and perhaps the types of establishments operating in these regions.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several key factors influence how much a Pastry Chef in Albuquerque can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: Pastry Chefs with refined skills in cake decoration, chocolate work, or advanced pastry techniques generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, or boutique bakeries often results in better pay compared to casual dining or chain outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) or completing rigorous culinary arts programs can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Flexibility in working early mornings, weekends, or holidays might come with pay differentials.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand for specialty pastry products in Albuquerque impacts salaries.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Albuquerque
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Albuquerque involves several steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training focusing on baking and pastry arts, giving hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications.
- Enhance Skills With Continuing Education: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Culinary Classes provide specialized pastry and baking courses suited for beginners and professionals alike.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices, while the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates pastry-specific expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a junior pastry cook or apprentice allows hands-on skill development and networking.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque
Albuquerque is home to establishments that frequently hire Pastry Chefs, including:
- Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm
- M'tucci's
- The Grove Cafe & Market
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque Work At
Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque typically find employment in a variety of establishments, each with implications for salary:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Demand for exquisite pastry creations and high-quality presentation usually brings higher pay.
- Hotels and Historic Inns: Such venues often require skilled pastry chefs for banquet and catering services, offering solid wages and benefits.
- Cafes and Artisan Bakeries: These tend to focus on specialty pastries and may offer competitive pay depending on clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While these provide steady employment, wages may be lower compared to high-end establishments.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence the earning potential of Pastry Chefs in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Pastry Chef, consider these related career options in hospitality:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef, roles which share culinary skills and may offer differing salary ranges depending on responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque
Pastry Chefs in Albuquerque need to understand relevant labor laws and tax regulations to manage their employment effectively.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for nationwide employment standards.
- For state-specific labor laws, resources are available at the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- Local regulations and pertinent information can be found on the City of Albuquerque official website.