Pastry Chef Salary in Norfolk, VA
Pastry Chefs in Norfolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.48 per hour, which translates to about $699.20 per week, $3,029.87 per month, and $36,358.40 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Norfolk varies based on experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,558.93 | $30,708.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.48 | $699.20 | $3,029.87 | $36,358.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.63 | $825.20 | $3,561.47 | $42,950.40 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Norfolk Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchens and bakeries rather than direct customer service. Their compensation comes primarily from their hourly wages or salary.
Pastry Chef Salary in Norfolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $20.35 per hour, or approximately $42,328 annually.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Norfolk earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $17.48 and a yearly salary of $36,358.40. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary ranges for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Norfolk: $18.50 per hour
- Ghent: $19.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Ghent and Downtown Norfolk can expect to earn slightly higher pay compared to the city average, reflecting demand in those neighborhoods.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several factors affect how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Norfolk:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with advanced techniques and more years of experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Pastry Chefs employed by upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty bakeries generally earn more than those in casual or fast-casual settings.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary or pastry certifications can boost salary potential.
- Work Schedule: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer differential pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: The demand for Pastry Chefs and the local cost of living can influence pay scales.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Norfolk
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Norfolk involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College offer an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts, covering essential cooking techniques.
- Specialized Training: Consider focused programs such as Baking and Pastry Arts at the Culinary Institute of Virginia in Norfolk for hands-on pastry skills and externships.
- Gain Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation validate core culinary skills, while ServSafe Food Handler Certification emphasizes food safety.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in kitchens help build expertise and enhance employability.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Norfolk
Several notable employers in Norfolk actively hire Pastry Chefs, including:
- Gold Key PHR
- Panera Bread
- Hilton Norfolk The Main
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Baker's Crust
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Norfolk Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find work in various establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate pay, focusing on basic pastry offerings.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Usually offer higher pay with opportunity to create elaborate desserts for events.
- Specialty Bakeries: These craft artisan pastries and desserts and typically pay the most due to skill requirements.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Feature creative dessert menus with the highest earning potential for Pastry Chefs.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary ranges, with fine dining and specialty bakeries generally offering the most lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Pastry Chefs
Those interested in similar culinary roles might explore opportunities as:
These include Pastry Cook, Banquet Chef, and Chef roles, which require related culinary skills and offer various earnings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Norfolk
Pastry Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work in Norfolk:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor federal site for nationwide employment regulations.
- Check the Commonwealth of Virginia website for state-specific labor laws and resources.
- Refer to the City of Norfolk official website for local business regulations and services.