Pastry Chef Salary in Lawton, OK
Pastry Chefs in Lawton, OK in 2025, earn approximately $28.08 per hour, which translates to about $1,123.20 per week, $4,867.20 per month, and $58,406.40 per year.
The job market for Pastry Chefs in Lawton is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook for individuals seeking employment in this culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Lawton varies by level of experience and expertise in the culinary field. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,506.67 | $54,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.08 | $1,123.20 | $4,867.20 | $58,406.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,566.67 | $78,880.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Lawton Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips because their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than directly serving customers. Their income is primarily through salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Lawton vs. National Average
Across the country, Pastry Chefs earn an average of about $33.00 per hour, translating to roughly $68,640 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Lawton earn slightly less, with approximately $28.08 hourly and $58,406.40 annually. Cost of living and local demand affect these figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer these hourly rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Fitzhugh: $29.83 per hour
- Forgan: $29.72 per hour
These neighboring regions present slightly higher wages, which can be attractive for Pastry Chefs willing to commute.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Lawton?
Several factors contribute to the salary range of a Pastry Chef in Lawton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced pastry chefs or those specialized in gourmet or artisan desserts tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or luxury hotels typically offers better pay than smaller bakeries or cafés.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those working night shifts or weekends might receive additional compensation.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall demand for pastry chefs in Lawton and surrounding areas also impacts income.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Lawton
Embarking on a Pastry Chef career in Lawton involves several steps:
- Culinary Education: Consider programs such as the Culinary Hospitality Assistant or Culinary Coordinator courses offered by Great Plains Technology Center, which provide foundational and management food service skills.
- Certification: Obtaining food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for handling food safely.
- Professional Credentials: Earning credentials like the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement can demonstrate culinary proficiency and boost employability.
- Practical Experience: Gaining experience through apprenticeships or working in various kitchen roles helps develop pastry skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Lawton
Some of the leading employers in Lawton seeking Pastry Chefs include:
- Windsor Bakery
- The Flying Doughnut
- Sampan Asian Bistro
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Lawton Work At
Pastry Chefs in Lawton typically find positions at diverse establishments, such as:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These locations often offer higher pay due to the demand for creative and handcrafted desserts.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Pastry Chefs here might earn modest salaries but benefit from a faster-paced environment.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger establishments tend to pay more and may provide benefits and career advancement.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with prestige and business scale playing critical roles.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Pastry Chefs
If you’re interested in roles related to Pastry Chef, you may want to explore these careers offering similar culinary experiences.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Lawton
Pastry Chefs should stay informed on labor laws and tax rules relevant to their employment in Lawton, OK.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide standards including wages and hours.
- Check the State of Oklahoma's official website for state-specific labor laws and resources to understand local protections and requirements.