Pastry Chef Salary in Portland, OR
Pastry Chefs in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for gourmet and artisan pastries in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Portland can vary based on experience, skill level, and the type of establishment, but here is a clear breakdown across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Portland Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchens rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings generally come from wages and salaries alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn around $29.30 per hour, equating to roughly $60,944 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Pastry Chefs in Portland earn slightly less, at about $27.50 per hour and $57,200 annually.
This difference might be influenced by local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Pastry Chefs
For those considering nearby neighborhoods, salary differences exist:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- Pearl District: $32.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in the Pearl District may have higher earnings due to the upscale nature of the area.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors can influence how much a Pastry Chef earns in Portland, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Chefs with refined skills and years of experience command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, or boutique bakeries often pays more than casual or chain eateries.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in artisan pastries, chocolate work, and dessert plating can enhance earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications or culinary school diplomas can increase salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Flexible schedules, including early mornings or weekends, may influence pay through shift differentials.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Portland
Building a career as a Pastry Chef in Portland involves several key steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Education: Institutes like the Oregon Culinary Institute offer a comprehensive Baking and Pastry Diploma Program, covering both fundamental and advanced techniques.
- Earn Relevant Certificates: Portland Community College provides a Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate focusing on practical skills aligned with industry standards.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for ensuring knowledge of proper food safety practices within Oregon.
- Achieve Professional Certification: Pursuing a Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) designation from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates professional competency and dedication.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships, internships, and entry-level pastry roles help develop hands-on expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Portland
Several well-known establishments in Portland are frequently seeking talented Pastry Chefs:
- Lauretta Jean's
- Cafe Olli
- Maurice
- Libre
- Voodoo Doughnut
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Portland Work At
Pastry Chefs in Portland can find roles in various establishment types:
- Artisan Bakeries and Boutique Shops: Often higher paying due to specialized skills required.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer steady pay but typically lower than specialty bakeries.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for higher salaries and career advancement.
- Catering Services: Additional opportunities for creative pastry work, sometimes with variable pay.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Pastry Chefs
Those interested in roles related to Pastry Chefs can consider the following similar careers:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities in culinary arts.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Portland
Pastry Chefs in Portland should be familiar with local labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage earnings effectively.
- Consult the official Oregon government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, minimum wage, overtime, and employee protections.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s website to stay informed on wage laws, workplace safety, and tax obligations.