Pastry Chef Salary in Birmingham, AL
Pastry Chefs in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.00 per hour, which translates to about $800.00 per week, $3,466.67 per month, and $41,600.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the pastry and baking industry in the area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Birmingham can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.63 | $665.20 | $2,881.87 | $34,582.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips since most of their work is behind the scenes creating and preparing pastry items rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come primarily from their salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $16.42 per hour, which translates to about $34,153.60 per year.
In Birmingham, Pastry Chefs earn a higher average hourly wage of $20.00 and an annual salary of $41,600.00, indicating that local salaries are above the national average. This can be due to regional demand, cost of living, and the presence of reputable culinary establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Pastry Chefs
Looking at nearby establishments, salary rates for Pastry Chefs vary:
- Highlands Bar and Grill: $33.00 per hour
- The Fish Market Restaurant: $20.00 per hour
Working at high-end or prestigious venues like Highlands Bar and Grill can offer significantly higher compensation for Pastry Chefs compared to other nearby places.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Birmingham?
Experience and Skill Level: Pastry Chefs with more years in the industry and specialized skills in various baking techniques tend to earn higher wages.
Certifications and Education: Holding certifications or formal culinary education can boost salary potential.
Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and boutique bakeries typically pay more than casual dining or fast-casual places.
Location within Birmingham: Salaries may be influenced by the neighborhood or district, with some parts offering premium pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Birmingham
Becoming a Pastry Chef involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience. Here are some important steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Institutions like Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham offer an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Culinary Arts with an emphasis in pastry baking, as well as certificate programs specifically in pastry baking.
- Attend Culinary Institutes: Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, based in Birmingham, provides a dynamic 36-week Culinary Arts Program with extensive hands-on training that prepares students for pastry chef roles.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) are ideal for entry-level pastry chefs. For experienced professionals overseeing pastry kitchen operations, the Certified Executive Pastry Chef (CEPC) certification is valuable.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles such as pastry assistant or apprentice provide valuable hands-on skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Birmingham
Birmingham hosts several notable establishments actively seeking skilled Pastry Chefs, including:
- Highlands Bar and Grill
- The Fish Market Restaurant
- Birmingham Breadworks
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Birmingham Work At
Pastry Chefs in Birmingham typically find employment across various types of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often require sophisticated pastry skills and can offer higher wages and opportunities for creativity.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: Positions here may offer a steadier but more moderate salary compared to upscale venues.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues may employ pastry chefs for a range of events and in-house dining, often with benefits and higher pay.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: These establishments value specialized baking skills and craftsmanship, which can reflect in competitive salaries.
The type and prestige of the establishment can directly influence a Pastry Chef’s salary, with more upscale environments typically providing greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Pastry Chefs
For those exploring related career paths to Pastry Chef, here are some similar roles within the hospitality sector:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, which share overlapping skills and duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Birmingham
Pastry Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings. Some key resources include:
- For federal labor standards visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- The State of Alabama's Department of Labor website is useful for state-specific guidelines on wages, workers' rights, and safety.
- Local employment laws and resources can be found at the City of Birmingham's official website.