Pastry Chef Salary in Little Rock, AR
Pastry Chefs in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Little Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for professionals in this culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Little Rock can vary based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages of a Pastry Chef's career.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $34,560.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work primarily involves preparing pastries and desserts behind the scenes. Their income is usually derived from their salary alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Little Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, totaling approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Little Rock earn slightly less, with an hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and job market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Riverdale: $17.60 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Riverdale enjoy some of the highest pay near Little Rock, reflecting differing local demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Little Rock?
Several important factors affect the salary of a Pastry Chef in Little Rock:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Pastry Chefs or those with specialized skills in complex pastry techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional qualifications, such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC), can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working in upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, or specialty bakeries typically offers better pay compared to casual or fast food settings.
- Location Within the City: Pastry Chefs employed in higher-paying areas like Riverdale may earn noticeably more.
- Work Hours and Shift Preferences: Night or weekend shifts may come with premium pay depending on the establishment.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Little Rock
If you aspire to build a career as a Pastry Chef in Little Rock, consider these steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as those at Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute, which offers comprehensive hands-on training and access to industry-standard facilities.
- Skill Enhancement Courses: Community education programs at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock provide non-credit culinary courses to improve your pastry skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation can improve your employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as a Pastry Cook or assistant in various establishments to hone your skills and advance professionally.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Little Rock
Several prominent employers are actively seeking Pastry Chefs in Little Rock:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Little Rock Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find employment in various settings including casual dining, fast casual restaurants, hotels, and specialty bakeries.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary:
- Specialty Bakeries and Fine Dining: Usually offer higher pay due to the emphasis on skill and quality.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide steady employment but typically have lower salaries compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can offer competitive pay and opportunities for growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Pastry Chefs
If you are exploring similar careers to Pastry Chef, consider related roles that also utilize baking and culinary skills.
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, which involve related culinary expertise and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Little Rock
Pastry Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for essential information on workplace standards.
- For Arkansas-specific labor policies, the State government website for Arkansas is a valuable resource.
- The Local government website for Little Rock, AR provides details on city ordinances and employment rules.