Pastry Chef Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for pastry and baking experts in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Milwaukee varies based on experience level and employer, but the following table provides an overview:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,203.33 | $38,480.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips since their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing desserts and baked goods rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or hourly wage.
Pastry Chef Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee earn slightly more than the national average, with an average hourly wage of $15.25 and an annual salary of about $31,720. This reflects Milwaukee's balanced cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Pastry Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods where Pastry Chefs can earn higher salaries include:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Third Ward: $17.00 per hour
Working in these central areas may offer increased pay due to the higher demand and prestige of establishments located there.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several key factors affect how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Milwaukee:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with advanced pastry-making skills, including specialty techniques and artistic presentation, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bakeries, hotels, and specialty pastry shops usually offer better pay compared to casual cafes or fast-casual dining.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary education and certifications can bolster salaries by demonstrating proficiency and professionalism.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working nights, weekends, or longer shifts may increase overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: Milwaukee's growing food culture drives competitive salaries for skilled Pastry Chefs.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Milwaukee
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Milwaukee involves a combination of education, training, and certification:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Consider the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training focused on pastry and baking techniques.
- Specialize in Baking and Pastry: Waukesha County Technical College provides a Baking and Pastry Management Program with hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of safe food handling, an essential requirement for most employers.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates advanced skills and can enhance career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level positions or apprenticeships to build experience and reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee
Some of the top employers in Milwaukee looking for skilled Pastry Chefs include:
- Bartolotta Restaurants
- Lowlands Group
- SURG Restaurant Group
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee Work At
Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee commonly find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Upscale Restaurants and Fine Dining: Generally offer higher salaries and opportunities for creativity.
- Specialty Bakeries and Patisseries: These require specialized skill sets and tend to pay well.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer more hours but typically lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide stable employment and benefits with competitive pay.
The type of establishment impacts salary ranges, with high-end venues offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Pastry Chefs
If you're interested in positions related to Pastry Chef, consider these similar hospitality roles:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef, all requiring culinary skills with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Milwaukee
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Pastry Chefs working in Milwaukee:
- For federal labor law details, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and employment resources can be found at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.