Pastry Chef Salary in Hilo, HI
In Hilo, HI, Pastry Chefs in 2025 earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which is about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Pastry Chefs in Hilo is growing steadily at around 5% per year, suggesting a positive demand trend for talented professionals in the culinary arts sector in this area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Hilo, HI?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Hilo varies based on experience level and expertise. Below is an overview broken down into entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Hilo Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work generally happens behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income usually comes from their salary or wages alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Hilo vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Hilo earn slightly less on average, with hourly wages around $13.90 and an annual salary near $28,912. This difference can reflect regional cost of living and local demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hilo for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer variation in pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Hilo: $15.50 per hour
- Waiakea: $17.60 per hour
Pastry Chefs in Waiakea can expect to earn notably more compared to those in Downtown Hilo or the wider Hilo area.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Hilo?
Several key factors affect how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Hilo:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Pastry Chefs with refined skills in baking, decoration, and recipe development tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale hotels, resorts, or specialty bakeries usually offers better compensation than casual restaurants or small cafes.
- Skill Set: Knowledge of diverse pastry techniques and ability to develop original desserts can boost earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of culinary programs or holding certifications can elevate salary levels.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Hilo
Building a successful career as a Pastry Chef in Hilo involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs such as the Hawaii Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Hawaii at Hilo Food Service Program which provide foundational and advanced pastry training.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Acquiring certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification or becoming a Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) through the American Culinary Federation enhances professional credibility.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticing or working in bakeries and kitchens helps develop practical skills and industry connections.
- Stay Updated: Keeping abreast of new trends and techniques in pastry arts can make you more competitive in the job market.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Hilo
Local employers actively seeking skilled Pastry Chefs include:
- Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
- Hilo Bay Cafe
- Cafe Pesto
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Hilo Work At
Pastry Chefs in Hilo can be found working in a variety of establishments:
- Hotels and Resorts: Offering higher wages and benefits, these venues require skilled pastry chefs to cater to guests and events.
- Specialty Bakeries and Dessert Shops: Focused on artisan products, often providing opportunities for creativity and premium pay.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Casual and fine dining venues may employ pastry chefs where pay varies widely depending on prestige and size.
- Catering Companies: Require pastry chefs to prepare desserts for special occasions with variable pay scales.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale and specialty venues often offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hilo for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to being a Pastry Chef, consider exploring opportunities in the following related careers.
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef positions, which require related culinary skills within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Hilo
Pastry Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Information about labor regulations can be found on the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- For details on federal tax information and requirements, visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website.