Pastry Chef Salary in Des-Plaines, IL
Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines, 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 Des-Plaines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive employment outlook and increasing opportunities in the pastry and baking sectors.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Des-Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Des-Plaines varies by experience level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different stages of a Pastry Chef's career.
| 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) | $37.00 | $1,480.00 | $6,413.33 | $76,960.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves preparation and baking behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income generally relies on their base salary.
Pastry Chef Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $22.33 per hour, translating to approximately $46,446.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines earn significantly more, at $33.00 per hour and $68,640.00 annually. This reflects the local market demand and cost of living adjustments in Des-Plaines.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas in Illinois offer varying salary prospects for Pastry Chefs:
- Techny: $33.00 per hour
- Tallula: $31.84 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Techny can expect comparable pay to Des-Plaines, while Tallula offers slightly lower hourly wages.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Des-Plaines?
Several factors impact Earnings for Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Chefs with broad expertise and advanced skills command higher pay.
- Type of Employer: Working for high-end bakeries, hotels, or catering companies typically offers superior compensation compared to casual or fast-casual establishments.
- Skills and Specializations: Mastery of specific pastry techniques or specialties can increase salary potential.
- Education and Certification: Holding relevant certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) or having formal pastry training can boost earnings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those willing to work early morning or late shifts may qualify for premium pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Des-Plaines
Pursuing a career as a Pastry Chef in Des-Plaines involves several key steps:
- Formal Education: Enroll in specialized programs such as the Baking and Pastry program at Kendall College at National Louis University or training offered by The French Pastry School in nearby Chicago.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) through the American Culinary Federation and the required ServSafe Certification to meet food safety standards in Illinois.
- Gain Work Experience: Start by working in bakeries, restaurants, or catering companies to develop practical skills.
- Continued Learning: Participate in workshops and advanced courses to stay updated on pastry trends and techniques.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines
Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines can find opportunities with various employers, including:
- DO & CO
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines Work At
Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines typically work in a range of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These often offer the highest salaries due to the specialized pastry menus and high expectations of quality.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues tend to pay more and provide opportunities for advancement.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: While entry-level pay may be lower, these offer valuable experience and steady employment.
- Specialty Bakeries and Dessert Shops: These businesses focus entirely on pastries, potentially providing competitive wages for skilled chefs.
The type and prestige of the establishment notably influence salary levels and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Pastry Chefs
There are several roles related to Pastry Chef that might be of interest, offering varied responsibilities but sharing similar culinary skills:
The roles include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, which share complementary skills in culinary arts and can have diverse salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Des-Plaines
As a Pastry Chef in Des-Plaines, it is important to be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect your employment:
- For comprehensive information on federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides detailed resources on state-specific employment laws and labor standards.