Pastry Chef Salary in New Bedford, MA
Pastry Chefs in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which equates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in New Bedford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook as the culinary and hospitality industry expands in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in New Bedford varies with experience and skills, but below is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| 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 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in New Bedford Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work primarily occurs behind the scenes and they typically don't interact directly with customers. Their income mostly comes from their salary or hourly wage.
Pastry Chef Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $14.50 per hour or around $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Pastry Chefs in New Bedford earn $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually, which is slightly below the national average.
This difference can reflect local economic factors and business sizes prevalent in New Bedford.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Pastry Chefs
Nearby neighborhoods offer various pay scales for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- North End: $17.60 per hour
The North End provides the highest earning potential for Pastry Chefs near New Bedford, followed by Downtown.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in New Bedford?
Several factors impact the earnings of a Pastry Chef in New Bedford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs with refined baking and decorating skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bakeries, hotels, or specialty dessert shops can command better pay compared to casual cafés or small bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding credentials like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can boost salary opportunities.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Flexible availability and willingness to work early mornings or weekends might lead to higher wages.
- Local Market Demand: An increasing appetite for artisanal pastries and desserts in New Bedford positively influences salary.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in New Bedford
To pursue a career as a Pastry Chef in New Bedford, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Bristol Community College offers a Culinary Arts Program providing hands-on experience and knowledge in pastry and baking.
- Advanced Education: Johnson & Wales University in nearby Providence, RI, has a respected Baking & Pastry Arts Program focusing on advanced techniques and business skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation enhances employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles help build essential skills.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in New Bedford
Some of the notable employers looking for Pastry Chefs in New Bedford include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in New Bedford Work At
Pastry Chefs work in a variety of settings, including:
- Artisan Bakeries: These typically pay more due to the specialized skill and craftsmanship required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Pay can be moderate but offers steady work environments.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide higher salaries and benefits reflecting the scale and clientele.
- Supermarkets and Chain Bakeries: Usually offer consistent hours but with lower pay compared to specialty establishments.
The type of establishment where a Pastry Chef works can significantly affect their salary and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Pastry Chef, consider the following related careers:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, offering alternative or complementary career paths within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in New Bedford
Pastry Chefs should be familiar with local and federal labor laws to ensure fair work conditions and understand their tax responsibilities.
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for detailed information on labor laws and regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers resources on federal labor laws and employment standards.