Pastry Chef Salary in Durham, NC
Pastry Chefs in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $18.85 per hour, which translates to about $754.00 per week, $3,267.33 per month, and $39,208.00 per year.
The job demand for Pastry Chefs in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industry within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Durham varies depending on experience and skill, but the general breakdown across various experience levels is as follows.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.24 | $649.60 | $2,807.73 | $33,692.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.85 | $754.00 | $3,267.33 | $39,208.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.88 | $875.20 | $3,780.80 | $45,510.40 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Durham Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips in most dining environments as their work is done behind the scenes in kitchens and pastry shops. Their compensation is mainly salary or hourly wage based without additional tip income.
Pastry Chef Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of about $20.27 per hour, which totals approximately $42,161.60 per year.
Compared to this, Pastry Chefs in Durham earn slightly lower, with an average of $18.85 per hour and $39,208.00 annually.
The difference reflects variations in local cost of living and demand for pastry professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer somewhat better salaries for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Durham: $19.50 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $20.00 per hour
These locations may appeal to Pastry Chefs seeking higher wages and opportunities close to Durham.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Durham?
Several important factors can influence how much a Pastry Chef earns in Durham:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Pastry Chefs with years of pastry arts experience typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries usually pays more than in casual or fast-casual setups.
- Certifications and Education: Holding industry certifications and advanced culinary training can positively affect salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Pastry Chefs working early mornings or weekends might receive shift differentials and bonuses.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Durham
Embarking on a career as a Pastry Chef in Durham involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials.
- Culinary Arts Program at Durham Technical Community College: Offers comprehensive training specifically in baking and pastry arts, preparing students well for entry-level culinary roles.
- Baking and Pastry Arts Program at Wake Technical Community College: Provides hands-on experience in pastry techniques including both classical and modern methods.
- ServSafe Certification: Important for food safety compliance, this certification is widely recognized in the food service industry.
- Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC): Offered by the American Culinary Federation, this credential validates pastry chefs' expertise and professionalism.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Durham
Durham offers Pastry Chef opportunities at a variety of well-known establishments, including:
- The Forest at Duke
- The Durham Hotel
- Guglhupf Bakery
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Durham Work At
Pastry Chefs in Durham typically work in diverse establishments, each affecting salary potential:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest pay due to quality expectations and intricate pastry offerings.
- Hotels and Resorts: These locations may provide steady work and often better benefits.
- Specialty Bakeries: Focused on artisan pastries, these bakeries may pay well for skilled chefs.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Tend to have lower pay but can be entry points into the profession.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly impact earning potential and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles closely related to Pastry Chef, consider these positions that share similar skill sets and responsibilities:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, all requiring culinary expertise and offering varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Durham
Pastry Chefs working in Durham should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure proper compliance and benefits.
- For comprehensive federal labor law information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Specific to North Carolina workers, the North Carolina Department of Labor provides resources on wage laws, workplace safety, and employment rights.