Pastry Chef Salary in Evanston, IL
Pastry Chefs in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $21.59 per hour, which translates to about $863.60 per week, $3,742.27 per month, and $44,907.20 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Evanston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary market.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Evanston varies by experience and skill level. Here is a breakdown of hourly to yearly pay based on experience tier.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.97 | $718.80 | $3,115.20 | $37,401.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.59 | $863.60 | $3,742.27 | $44,907.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.87 | $1,354.80 | $5,858.40 | $70,329.60 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Evanston Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wage.
Pastry Chef Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $22.33 per hour, or approximately $46,446.40 annually.
Compared to this, Pastry Chefs in Evanston earn slightly less on average, at $21.59 per hour and $44,907.20 yearly. This minor difference may be influenced by local market factors and living costs in Evanston.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Pastry Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offer different pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Evanston: $34 per hour
- Lakeshore: $27 per hour
Downtown Evanston offers the highest salaries in the vicinity, reflecting its more upscale dining and bakery establishments.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Evanston?
Several factors can influence a Pastry Chef's earnings in Evanston:
- Experience and Expertise: More years in pastry arts and advanced skills result in higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end bakeries or luxury hotels often commands better salaries compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary degrees or certifications like those from the American Culinary Federation can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Overnight or early morning shifts might come with shift differentials, enhancing income.
- Reputation and Specialty Skills: Pastry Chefs skilled in French pastry, chocolate work, or cake design may earn more.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Evanston
Becoming a Pastry Chef in Evanston typically involves education, training, and certifications:
- Enroll in a Culinary Arts Program: Institutions like Kendall College in nearby Chicago offer comprehensive Culinary Arts programs with specialized pastry training.
- Specialized Pastry Schools: The French Pastry School in Chicago provides intensive courses focused exclusively on pastry and baking arts.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation validate professional skills.
- Gain Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required by local employers.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Evanston
Several respected companies in Evanston hire Pastry Chefs, including:
- Foodstuffs Gourmet Foods & Catering
- Hewn Bakery
- Bennison's Bakery
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Evanston Work At
Pastry Chefs commonly work in a variety of settings, including:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These establishments typically offer higher salaries due to craftsmanship demands.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Pastry Chefs here may earn moderate wages depending on the restaurant's scale.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may pay more and offer benefits, often needing pastry chefs for banquets and room service.
- Catering Companies: Offering flexible work but salary can vary significantly based on contract size.
The type of establishment greatly affects a Pastry Chef’s earnings and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to being a Pastry Chef, you might consider similar hospitality positions.
Positions closely related to Pastry Chef include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, which share culinary skills but differ in responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Evanston
Pastry Chefs should be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair and legal employment.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information on federal labor laws and regulations, including wage and hour standards.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security website offers resources specific to Illinois employment and labor laws.