Pastry Chef Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit, MO, 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 job outlook for Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit is positive with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the culinary and pastry arts field within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Lees-Summit varies based on experience and skill level. Here is a breakdown of earnings across entry, mid, and top experience levels.
| 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 | $78,960.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes, focusing on baking and dessert preparation. Their compensation primarily comes from salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average hourly wage of about $22.35 and an annual salary near $46,488.
In comparison, Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit earn a significantly higher wage, approximately $33.00 per hour and $68,640 annually. This higher pay can reflect cost of living differences, local demand for skilled culinary professionals, and the specific restaurant and hospitality market dynamics in Lees-Summit.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $35.00 per hour
- Lakewood: $34.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Downtown Lees-Summit tend to earn the highest wages, while those in Lakewood also receive above-average pay.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Multiple factors influence a Pastry Chef’s earning potential in Lees-Summit:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Pastry Chefs with advanced skills in pastry techniques and presentation generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty bakeries often leads to better compensation compared to casual or fast-food establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications such as Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Pastry Chefs working holidays, weekends or unconventional hours might receive additional compensation.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Lees-Summit
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Lees-Summit involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Foundational Culinary Programs: Programs like Culinary Foundations and Culinary Arts I offered by the Lee's Summit R-7 School District provide essential skills in nutrition, food safety, and baking techniques.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler’s Certification and Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) help validate your expertise and improve employability.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level roles in bakeries and kitchens help build practical skills and industry connections.
- Continuing Education: Ongoing learning in pastry arts and specialty desserts can differentiate you in the job market.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit
Prominent employers in Lees-Summit that regularly hire Pastry Chefs include:
- TempStop
- Lidia's Kansas City
- Ocean Prime
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit Work At
Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit can be found working in several types of establishments, each offering different pay scales:
- Casual Restaurants: May provide steady but moderate pay with less pressure and volume of production.
- Fast Casual Dining: Often hire for high-volume dessert preparation; pay is competitive but may vary.
- Specialty Bakeries and Dessert Shops: Usually pay the highest salaries due to the expertise and creativity expected.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Offer consistent pay and opportunities for bonuses depending on event-driven demand.
The establishment type greatly influences the income and benefits available to Pastry Chefs in this region.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Pastry Chefs
For those interested in careers related to Pastry Chefs, consider roles with overlapping skills and culinary focus.
This includes positions such as Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, which share culinary skills and similar working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Lees-Summit
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Pastry Chefs to protect their rights and manage earnings effectively.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards.
- For Missouri-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the Missouri state labor website.
- The Official website of Lee's Summit, MO offers local government info that can assist with employment and labor questions.