Pastry Chef Salary in Franklin, TN
Pastry Chefs in Franklin, TN, 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 Franklin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals specializing in pastries and desserts within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Franklin, TN?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Franklin varies with experience levels and the type of establishment. Here's an overview of typical earnings:
| 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 | $78,560.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Franklin Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips since their role primarily involves preparation and baking behind the scenes. Their compensation tends to come from their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Franklin vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average hourly wage of around $33.00, which amounts to about $68,640.00 per year.
Pastry Chefs in Franklin, TN, earn an average salary that closely matches the national level, indicating competitive pay aligned with standard industry trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Franklin for Pastry Chefs
Nearby regions offering higher wages for Pastry Chefs include:
- Downtown Franklin: $35.00 per hour
- Cool Springs: $36.00 per hour
These areas provide enhanced pay opportunities, possibly due to higher-end dining establishments and increased demand for skilled pastry professionals.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Franklin?
Several factors contribute to a Pastry Chef's earnings in Franklin:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Pastry Chefs with advanced pastry skills and creativity command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries usually offers greater pay than casual eateries or chain cafes.
- Specialized Skills: Mastery in decorative techniques, chocolate work, or artistic plating can significantly boost salary potential.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) and formal culinary training can enhance prospects.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Roles requiring early morning or late-night shifts may include premium pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Franklin
To pursue a career as a Pastry Chef in Franklin, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville offer focused baking and pastry courses that provide essential practical training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure proper hygiene and food handling.
- Gain Industry Certifications: Earning the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential through the American Culinary Federation helps validate your pastry skills and professionalism.
- Acquire Work Experience: Starting in apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level baking positions builds foundational skills and enhances employability.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Franklin
Franklin offers employment opportunities for Pastry Chefs with respected businesses such as:
- Stoney River Steakhouse & Grill
- J. Alexander's Restaurant
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Franklin Work At
Pastry Chefs in Franklin typically work across a spectrum of dining and food service venues, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often offer the highest salaries and require sophisticated pastry artistry.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide diverse pastry applications and often include benefits as part of compensation.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: May offer steady work but generally at lower pay scales.
- Specialty Bakeries and Dessert Shops: Focus on pastry arts exclusively, sometimes providing creative freedom and higher earnings based on skill level.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence your earning potential as a Pastry Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Franklin, TN for Pastry Chefs
If you are exploring positions similar to Pastry Chef, consider these related careers that share culinary skills and responsibilities:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Head Chef positions, which relate closely to the pastry culinary field and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Franklin
Pastry Chefs in Franklin should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations to protect their rights and understand their tax responsibilities.
- Details on Tennessee state labor laws, minimum wage, and regulations are available at the official Tennessee government website.
- Information regarding federal labor standards and employment regulations can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Labor's website.