Pastry Chef Salary in Kansas City, KS
Pastry Chefs in Kansas City, KS, 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 Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for careers in pastry and bakery arts within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Kansas City varies according to experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of 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) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips because their work is mostly behind-the-scenes preparing desserts and pastries rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are primarily based on hourly wages or salary.
Pastry Chef Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of about $33.00 per hour, equaling roughly $68,640.00 annually.
Pastry Chefs in Kansas City, KS, earn salaries that align closely with these national figures, suggesting a competitive market consistent with national trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Pastry Chefs
Nearby cities offer similar pay scales for Pastry Chefs, including:
- Edwardsville: $33.00 per hour
- Edgerton: $33.00 per hour
These nearby locations provide comparable opportunities for Pastry Chefs seeking employment close to Kansas City.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several key factors can influence how much a Pastry Chef earns in Kansas City, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced chefs with specialized pastry skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding credentials like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) certification can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Pastry Chefs working in upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries often earn more than those in casual dining or fast food chains.
- Skill Set: Advanced skills such as cake decorating, chocolate work, and creating complex pastries may impact salary positively.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Working early mornings, weekends, or holidays may include pay differentials.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Kansas City
To pursue a career as a Pastry Chef in Kansas City, aspiring professionals often follow these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions such as Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program and Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in pastry techniques and baking fundamentals.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of proper food handling practices, which is vital for all culinary professionals.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a Pastry Cook or Assistant in bakeries and kitchens helps build essential skills.
- Earn Professional Certification: Achieving the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) title from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates expertise and can improve job prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Kansas City
Some of the top establishments looking to hire skilled Pastry Chefs in Kansas City include:
- The American Restaurant
- 801 Chophouse
- The Capital Grille
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Kansas City Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer higher wages and opportunities to hone specialized skills and work on artisanal desserts.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady work with potentially better benefits and pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer moderate pay but may have more accessible entry points.
- Specialty Bakeries and Gourmet Shops: Tend to offer higher salaries reflecting the craftsmanship and skill involved.
The type of establishment heavily influences both the salary and opportunities for advancement available to a Pastry Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Pastry Chefs
If you're exploring careers similar to Pastry Chef, consider the following roles that share related culinary skills and career paths:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef positions—roles that often overlap or provide alternative career opportunities within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Kansas City
Pastry Chefs should understand their rights and responsibilities under both federal and state labor laws, as well as tax obligations:
- Review federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers wages, working conditions, and workers' rights.
- For specific regulations pertaining to Kansas, consult the State of Kansas official website which provides state labor laws and resources relevant to employees and employers.