Pastry Chef Salary in Bloomington, IN
Pastry Chefs in Bloomington, IN, 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 Bloomington is growing steadily at around 5% per year, signaling positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the culinary field within the city and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Bloomington, IN?
Pastry Chef salaries in Bloomington can vary based on experience and employer type. Here is an overview across different levels of experience:
| 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 Bloomington Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly done behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their primary income comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than from customer gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $33.00 per hour, or about $68,640.00 per year.
In Bloomington, salaries are aligned with the national average, with Pastry Chefs earning roughly the same hourly and annual pay. This suggests that Bloomington offers competitive compensation relative to national standards for this profession.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $35.00 per hour
- East Side: $34.00 per hour
Those working in the Downtown area typically earn a bit more than in East Side, reflecting variations in demand and establishment types within these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Bloomington?
Several factors contribute to how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Bloomington:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Pastry Chefs skilled in complex desserts generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Pastry Chefs working in fine dining restaurants or upscale bakeries often earn more than those in casual or fast-casual venues.
- Specialized Skills and Certifications: Mastery in chocolate work, cake decoration, or certification such as Certified Pastry Culinarian can boost salaries.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Different shifts or overtime may impact overall earnings.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Bloomington’s economic conditions influence demand and wages for culinary professionals.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Bloomington
To pursue a career as a Pastry Chef in Bloomington, consider the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs like the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on and theoretical training essential for aspiring Pastry Chefs.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: Indiana University offers Baking and Pastry Arts courses focusing on advanced baking techniques and industry standards.
- Obtain Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Certification ensure knowledge of food safety, and the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) validates professional skills.
- Accumulate Practical Experience: Start by working in kitchens or bakeries to build real-world skills and progress to higher roles.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Bloomington
Bloomington boasts several notable places actively hiring Pastry Chefs:
- FARMbloomington
- The Owlery
- Upland Brewing Company
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Bloomington Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find roles across diverse hospitality settings including:
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: These offer higher wages in exchange for crafting high-quality, intricate pastries and desserts.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Pastry Chefs here focus on quick-production desserts with competitive but moderate pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger establishments often provide stable hours and benefits, sometimes coupled with higher pay.
- Breweries and Cafés: These may offer unique opportunities for pastry innovation in a relaxed setting.
The establishment type deeply influences the salary and growth opportunities for Pastry Chefs in Bloomington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Pastry Chefs
If you’re interested in related careers, here are some options with similar skills and work environments:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, roles that offer distinct yet related culinary career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Bloomington
Being informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities is important for Pastry Chefs working in Bloomington.
- You can find details on state employment resources and labor laws at the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- For federal labor law information, the U.S. Department of Labor is a comprehensive resource.