Pastry Chef Salary in Aurora, CO
Pastry Chefs in Aurora, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $33.60 per hour, which translates to about $1,344.00 per week, $5,824.00 per month, and $69,888.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Aurora is showing positive growth at about 5% per year, indicating a rising need for skilled culinary professionals in the city's pastry arts sector.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Aurora can vary depending on experience and employer type, but the following table provides a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.00 | $1,560.00 | $6,760.00 | $81,120.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Aurora Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is generally through salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Pastry Chef Salary in Aurora, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $34.00 per hour and approximately $70,720.00 annually.
Comparing this with Aurora's average of $33.60 per hour and $69,888.00 annually, Pastry Chefs in Aurora earn slightly below the national average but remain competitive within the regional job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Pastry Chefs
Nearby establishments offer varying pay scales for Pastry Chefs:
- Marriott International: $36.71 per hour
- Blackstone Country Club: $32.21 per hour
- Hyatt: $31.49 per hour
Working at Marriott International near Aurora could provide more lucrative pay compared to other local employers.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Aurora, CO?
Several factors affect how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Aurora, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs command higher wages.
- Skill Set and Specialization: Expertise in specialty pastries, chocolatiering, or decorating techniques can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale hotels and fine dining restaurants tend to offer better compensation than casual dining or bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding credentials such as Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Schedule: Surge times or flexible shifts might come with additional pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Aurora, CO
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Aurora involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder offer robust pastry arts programs focused on classical and modern techniques.
- Gain Hands-On Training: Practical experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles is critical.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential validates proficiency and commitment to the craft.
- Stay Updated on Trends: Continuous learning about emerging pastry trends and techniques helps maintain competitiveness.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Aurora, CO
Some of the prominent employers offering opportunities for Pastry Chefs in Aurora include:
- Marriott International
- Blackstone Country Club
- Hyatt
- P.F. Chang's
- Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Aurora, CO Work At
Pastry Chefs in Aurora find work across a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer higher salaries due to quality demands and complex pastry preparations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments might provide stable pay and benefits along with more diverse pastry responsibilities.
- Country Clubs and Catering Services: These often require customized pastries for events, sometimes leading to varied pay depending on event frequency.
- Bakeries and Cafés: Casual spots provide steady work but may offer lower wages compared to upscale employers.
The type of establishment heavily influences the salary level due to differences in clientele, complexity of menu, and volume of work.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora, CO for Pastry Chefs
If you're exploring careers similar to being a Pastry Chef, here are a few related positions:
These include Pastry Cook, Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, all of which involve culinary expertise in food preparation and presentation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Aurora, CO
Pastry Chefs in Aurora should be aware of state and federal labor laws and taxation policies to navigate their employment rights and responsibilities.
- Information about Colorado labor laws is available on the official Colorado government website.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website for comprehensive guidance.