Pastry Chef Salary in Pomona, CA
Pastry Chefs in Pomona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which is about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The job market for Pastry Chefs in Pomona is growing steadily at around 5% annually, indicating increasing demand and opportunities for skilled professionals in the pastry and baking industry each year.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Pomona, CA?
Pastry Chef salaries in Pomona vary depending on experience, skillset, and workplace, but here’s a breakdown based on common levels of expertise.
| 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 | $79,040.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Pomona Earn Tips?
Generally, Pastry Chefs do not make tips because their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchens and bakeries rather than providing direct customer service. Their income mainly depends on their base salary or hourly wage.
Pastry Chef Salary in Pomona vs. National Average
Pastry Chefs across the United States earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, which equates to about $62,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Pomona make slightly more, earning about $33.00 per hour and $68,640 annually. This pay difference can be attributed to local factors such as the cost of living and demand for skilled pastry professionals in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas show the following hourly pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Pomona: $35.00 per hour
- North Pomona: $36.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in these neighborhoods can expect a slight salary boost compared to the average Pomona rate.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Pomona?
A Pastry Chef’s salary in Pomona depends on several factors that include:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs command higher wages, especially those skilled in sophisticated techniques or specialized desserts.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and specialty bakeries tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-casual outlets.
- Certifications and Credentials: Holding certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can boost earning potential by validating expertise.
- Work Schedule and Shift: Pastry Chefs working early mornings or during holidays might receive shift differentials increasing overall pay.
- Local Market Demand: Pomona’s growing hospitality and food industry fosters better salary opportunities for skilled Pastry Chefs.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Pomona
Becoming a Pastry Chef in Pomona involves a blend of education and practical training:
- Formal Education: Programs like those at Cal Poly Pomona - Collins College of Hospitality Management offer culinary courses, including pastry preparation suited for employment.
- Hands-On Training: Mt. San Antonio College - Culinary Arts Program provides practical baking and pastry arts training to prepare students for entry-level positions.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for food safety compliance in California.
- Advanced Certification: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential by the American Culinary Federation enhances credibility and job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Pomona
Several notable employers in Pomona regularly hire Pastry Chefs, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Marriott Hotels
- Hyatt Regency
- Hilton Hotels
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Pomona Work At
Pastry Chefs in Pomona typically work across multiple types of establishments:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Usually offer higher wages due to complex pastry menus and higher skill demands.
- Hotel Kitchens: Employees often receive competitive pay combined with benefits in large hotel chains.
- Specialty Bakeries: Work involves crafting detailed desserts, often coming with premium pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Salary may be lower but often provides good entry opportunities.
- Supermarkets and Food Markets: Such as Whole Foods Market, tend to offer stable positions with moderate pay.
The specific type of establishment can greatly affect a Pastry Chef’s income due to differing expectations, clientele, and skill level requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Pastry Chefs
If you are exploring roles related to Pastry Chef, here are a few similar careers to consider:
These include Pastry Cook, Banquet Chef, and Chef positions, which often require related skills and may offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Pomona
Pastry Chefs should be aware of both state and federal labor laws and tax requirements to understand their rights and financial responsibilities.
- California Department of Industrial Relations provides comprehensive details on state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers assistance with employment services and tax information.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.