Pastry Chef Salary in Burbank, CA
Pastry Chefs in Burbank, CA, 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 Burbank is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook for culinary professionals specializing in pastries and desserts in the area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Burbank, CA?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Burbank can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels:
| 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 Burbank Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is usually behind the scenes in kitchens and bakeries. Their compensation is mostly salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Burbank vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, which comes to about $58,240.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Burbank earn notably higher wages, with an average hourly rate of $33.00 and an annual salary of $68,640.00.
This premium can be attributed to higher living costs in California and the area's strong culinary scene requiring skilled pastry professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burbank for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas with Pastry Chef salaries include:
- Zip Code 91501: $33.00 per hour
- Zip Code 91504: $33.00 per hour
The pay in these areas closely matches Burbank’s, showing a consistent wage level for Pastry Chefs within the vicinity.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Burbank?
Several key factors contribute to the variation in a Pastry Chef's salary in Burbank, CA:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced skills in specialized techniques, cake decorating, and years of practice lead to higher earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and boutique bakeries generally offer better wages than casual dining or mass-production bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications and formal training often results in better pay.
- Work Schedule: Pastry Chefs working shifts during busy seasons or holidays might receive bonuses or higher hourly rates.
- Local Economic Factors: Burbank's thriving entertainment and tourism help support a robust market for quality desserts and pastries, impacting salaries positively.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Burbank
To become a Pastry Chef in Burbank, aspiring professionals can follow these steps:
- Formal Education: Enroll in culinary programs like the Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in baking and pastry arts.
- Specialized Courses: Schools such as Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena provide focused courses on pastry preparation and modern techniques.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation can enhance job prospects.
- On-the-job Experience: Gaining practical experience as a pastry assistant or junior chef is important to build skills and advance in this career.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Burbank
Several renowned employers in Burbank actively seek skilled Pastry Chefs, including:
- Porto's Bakery
- The Walt Disney Company
- Warner Bros. Studios
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Burbank Work At
Pastry Chefs in Burbank typically find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Artisan Bakeries: Often offer competitive salaries reflecting the skill and craftsmanship required for handmade pastries.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer lower salaries, focusing on volume production rather than specialty items.
- Hotels and Resorts: Generally provide higher pay, especially for chefs creating elaborate desserts for guests and events.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Compensation varies based on the event scale and complexity of pastry offerings.
The type of establishment strongly affects earnings, with gourmet and upscale venues typically paying the most to experienced Pastry Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burbank for Pastry Chefs
If you're interested in careers related to Pastry Chef work, consider exploring roles such as:
These roles include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef, which share culinary skills and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Burbank
Pastry Chefs should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Burbank, CA. Important resources include:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and workplace standards in California are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local regulations and resources pertinent to Burbank workers can be referenced at the Official City of Burbank website.