Pastry Chef Salary in Skokie, IL
Pastry Chefs in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Skokie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the pastry and baking industry in this area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Skokie varies depending on experience and skill level, but here’s a general breakdown by career stage:
| 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 | $78,960.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Skokie Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips because their work is typically performed behind the scenes and not directly in customer-facing roles. Their income mainly consists of their salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, or approximately $58,240 per year.
When compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Skokie earn notably more, with an average hourly wage of $33.00 and an annual salary of about $68,640. This reflects the local demand and cost of living in the Skokie area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Pastry Chefs
Nearby Skokie, several areas offer slightly higher salaries for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Skokie: $35.00 per hour
- Old Orchard: $36.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide opportunities with better pay, likely due to more upscale establishments and higher living expenses.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors strongly influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Skokie:
- Experience and Skills: Pastry Chefs with advanced baking techniques, creativity in dessert presentation, and years of experience tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels usually pays more than bakeries or casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certificates or specialized training in pastry arts can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timings and Responsibilities: Pastry Chefs handling managerial responsibilities or working night shifts may receive shift differentials.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Skokie
Building a career as a Pastry Chef in Skokie requires practical skills and formal training. Here are some ways to get started:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program, which focuses on pastry and baking with hands-on experience.
- Specialized Pastry Courses: Consider attending the Chicago Pastry School nearby, which offers workshops and full-time pastry programs.
- Get Certified: Obtain credentials such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation. This certification validates expertise and can boost job prospects.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: This certification is required in Illinois to ensure safe food handling practices in the kitchen.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Skokie
Several prominent employers in Skokie actively seek skilled Pastry Chefs, including:
- Kaufman's
- XO Marshmallow
- Sur La Table
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Skokie Work At
Pastry Chefs find employment across a variety of establishment types in Skokie:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Likely offer higher salaries and more creative freedom than other settings.
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often provide steady work with excellent compensation and benefits.
- Bakeries and Patisseries: Salary here varies widely depending on size and reputation, with specialized shops paying more.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Eateries: Usually offer entry-level opportunities but with comparatively lower pay.
The nature and prestige of the establishment greatly impact the Pastry Chef’s salary range and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Pastry Chefs
If you are considering similar career paths related to Pastry Chef, here are some options to explore:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef positions, all of which share relevant culinary skills and roles within the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Skokie
Pastry Chefs in Skokie should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on federal labor laws, wage standards, and worker protections.
- For state-specific employment resources and regulations, the Illinois Department of Employment Security offers guidance on labor rights and unemployment insurance.