Pastry Chef Salary in Mesa, AZ
Pastry Chefs in Mesa, AZ, 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 Mesa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in the area, promising expanding opportunities in this sweet culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Mesa, AZ?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Mesa can vary depending on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of earnings across different 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 | $78,560.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Mesa Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work usually takes place in the kitchen or bakery area without direct customer interaction. Their income primarily consists of their hourly wage or salary.
Pastry Chef Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $33.00 per hour, translating to about $68,640 annually.
Pastry Chefs in Mesa align closely with the national average, earning an average of $33.00 per hour. This similarity reflects the competitive culinary landscape and cost of living in Mesa.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Mesa: $35.00 per hour
- East Mesa: $36.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Downtown or East Mesa can expect to earn slightly more compared to the broader Mesa area, reflecting localized demand and possibly more upscale dining or bakery options.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Mesa?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Mesa:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced chefs and those with advanced pastry and baking skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Pastry Chefs working at upscale bakeries, luxury hotels, or high-end restaurants typically earn more than those in fast casual or smaller operations.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials like the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification and ServSafe Manager Certification can enhance earning potential.
- Specialization: Expertise in specific pastry arts, such as cake decorating or chocolate confections, may lead to higher wages.
- Shift and Hours: Flexibility to work early mornings or weekends can sometimes be rewarded with shift differentials or bonuses.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Mesa
Becoming a successful Pastry Chef in Mesa involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary and Baking Programs: Consider the Commercial Baking & Pastry Arts Program at East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) which covers a wide range of pastry skills and certifications including ServSafe and ACF Certification.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification and the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can validate your skills and improve employability.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Work in kitchens or bakeries to develop practical skills, either through apprenticeships or entry-level positions.
- Consider Further Education: Mesa Community College offers a Culinary Arts program that includes courses in baking and pastry arts to deepen your expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Mesa
Some of the leading employers seeking skilled Pastry Chefs in Mesa include:
- Sweet Rebellion Bakery
- Crust & Crumb
- The Flour Shop
- Chompies Bakery
- Morning Glory Bakery
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Mesa Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find work in a variety of establishment types including casual and fast casual restaurants, specialty bakeries, hotels, and catering companies.
Specialty bakeries and high-end hotels usually offer the highest salaries, reflecting the skill and attention to detail required.
Casual and fast casual restaurants may have lower pay scales but can offer valuable experience and more entry-level opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Pastry Chefs
If you are considering similar careers in hospitality, here are several related positions that share culinary skills and may present alternative career paths:
These roles include Pastry Cook, Assistant Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef, each demanding various culinary skills and offering distinct salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Mesa
Pastry Chefs should understand labor laws and tax regulations relevant to Mesa and Arizona to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) for federal employment laws and wage standards.
- The Arizona Commerce Authority (state website) provides information on state labor laws and workforce development.
- For local regulations, visit the City of Mesa Official Website (local government).