Pastry Chef Salary in Billings, MT
Pastry Chefs in Billings, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities in culinary arts and baking sectors within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Billings varies depending on experience, skill, and employer type. Below is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Billings Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing baked goods and desserts. Their income usually depends on salary and wages rather than gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn around $33.00 per hour and approximately $68,640.00 per year.
Pastry Chefs in Billings earn on par with the national average, making it a competitive area for this role within Montana and across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $35.00 per hour
- West End: $34.00 per hour
Working in Downtown Billings tends to offer the best compensation for Pastry Chefs compared to other local areas.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Billings?
Several important factors shape the salary a Pastry Chef can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs with specialized skills in cake decorating or artisan pastries generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries often pays better than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of culinary or baking programs and certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift and Working Hours: Pastry Chefs working early morning or holiday shifts may receive premium pay.
- Local Market Demand: Growing culinary demand in Billings positively affects salaries within the industry.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Billings
To pursue a career as a Pastry Chef in Billings, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Baking and Pastry AAS planned at Big Sky Culinary Institute or the Advanced Baking and Pastry certificate at Culinary Institute of Montana, Flathead Valley Community College.
- Gain Certification: While not mandatory, certifications from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can improve job prospects. Additionally, a ServSafe Certification is preferred by employers for food safety compliance.
- Develop Hands-on Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen positions provide practical skills and familiarity with pastry preparation.
- Build a Portfolio: Showcasing skills via photos or a dessert portfolio can attract better job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Billings
Major employers looking for Pastry Chefs in Billings include:
- One&Only Moonlight Basin
- Sam's Club
- Albertsons
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Billings Work At
Pastry Chefs in Billings typically work at:
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Often offer the highest salaries and opportunities for creativity.
- Specialty Bakeries: Focus on artisan products with competitive pay and skill development.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: May offer stable work but generally with lower salaries.
- Supermarkets and Big Box Stores: Employ Pastry Chefs for mass production, providing consistent but moderate wages.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, work environment, and career growth possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to being a Pastry Chef, consider these similar career paths:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef roles, which share culinary skills and varying salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Billings
It is important for Pastry Chefs in Billings to understand relevant labor regulations and tax requirements.
- Refer to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry for information on state labor laws and employment standards.
- For federal tax obligations and employer guidelines, consult the Internal Revenue Service.