Pastry Chef Salary in Cicero, IL
Pastry Chefs in Cicero, IL, 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 Cicero is growing at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and increasing job opportunities in the local culinary scene for skilled pastry professionals.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Cicero, IL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Cicero varies with experience and workplace, but here’s an overview based on 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 Cicero Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is largely behind the scenes preparing desserts and baked goods rather than direct customer service. Their income primarily comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Cicero vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $33.00 per hour, amounting to about $68,640.00 annually.
Pastry Chefs in Cicero earn closely in line with the national average, with typical hourly wages and yearly salaries matching those figures due to similar cost of living and market demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cicero for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pastry chef salaries include:
- Area 1: $35.00 per hour
- Area 2: $36.00 per hour
Commuting to these surrounding regions may offer Pastry Chefs the opportunity to earn slightly higher wages depending on the employer and establishment type.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Cicero?
Several factors strongly influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Cicero:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Pastry Chefs with specialized skills in complex baking and dessert creation typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries usually offers better compensation compared to fast casual or chain restaurants.
- Certification and Training: Formal culinary education and professional certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Pastry Chefs working early morning shifts or longer hours may receive shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Cicero
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Cicero involves the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago, which provide comprehensive pastry and baking training.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring credentials such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation boosts credibility and job prospects. Additionally, the Food Handler Certification required by Illinois supports compliance with safety regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a Pastry Cook or apprentice in a bakery or restaurant provides essential hands-on skills.
- Develop a Portfolio: Building a collection of your work, including photos and recipes, can help attract employers.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Cicero
Notable employers in the Cicero area that often hire Pastry Chefs include:
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels
- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Cicero Work At
Pastry Chefs in Cicero work across a range of culinary establishments, including:
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: These venues typically offer higher salaries and opportunities for creativity.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Expect competitive wages with emphasis on quality and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay less but may provide consistent work schedules.
- Specialty Bakeries and Patisseries: Highly focused on pastry skills, sometimes with premium pay for artistry and expertise.
The type of establishment influences not only salary but also work environment, creative freedom, and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cicero for Pastry Chefs
If you're considering careers similar to Pastry Chef, here are a few related roles to explore:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Head Chef roles, which share overlapping skills and may differ in responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Cicero
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Pastry Chefs working in Cicero, IL.
- For federal labor laws, wage standards, and employment regulations visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides state-specific information on labor laws and workforce development.
- The Cicero Township official website offers local government resources and community information relevant to workers.