Pastry Chef Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.41 per hour, which translates to about $936.40 per week, $4,057.73 per month, and $48,692.80 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
A Pastry Chef's earnings in Spokane-Valley vary based on their expertise and experience. Below is a breakdown showing income at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.01 | $760.40 | $3,287.47 | $39,464.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.41 | $936.40 | $4,057.73 | $48,692.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.83 | $1,153.20 | $5,002.20 | $60,038.40 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Typically, Pastry Chefs do not earn tips as their work is done behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is generally limited to their base salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Pastry Chef Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $19.68 per hour, equivalent to roughly $40,934.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley earn a higher hourly wage of $23.41 and an annual salary of $48,692.80.
This higher pay can be related to local market demands, skill requirements, and cost of living adjustments in the Spokane-Valley area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Pastry Chefs
If you are considering nearby locations, these areas offer some of the best pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- South Hill: $25.00 per hour
- Downtown Spokane: $24.50 per hour
Both areas provide slightly better compensation than Spokane-Valley itself, potentially attracting experienced pastry professionals.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Several elements impact how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Spokane-Valley, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Chefs with years of practice and specialized skills in advanced techniques can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary between working at high-end hotels, dedicated bakeries, restaurants, or catering companies, with luxury venues usually paying more.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can enhance earning potential.
- Reputation and Clientele: Chefs known for luxury wedding cakes or exclusive dessert menus often receive better pay.
- Shift Timings and Hours: Flexible schedules including early mornings or weekend shifts may come with added compensation.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Spokane-Valley
Starting a career as a Pastry Chef in Spokane-Valley involves several key steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Education: Consider enrolling in programs like the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Culinary Arts offered by the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy at Spokane Community College which provides solid culinary foundations including pastry skills.
- Specialized Baking Training: Programs such as the AAS Degree in Baking and Pastry at Lake Washington Institute of Technology emphasize hands-on pastry and dessert preparation techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential and often required to work in food service settings.
- Earn Industry-Specific Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates professional mastery and can improve employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or apprenticeships in local bakeries or kitchens help build necessary skills and professional networks.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley
Some of the leading establishments currently looking for talented Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley include:
- The Davenport Grand Hotel
- Breauxdoo Bakery
- Luna Restaurant
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley Work At
Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley commonly find opportunities in a variety of establishments:
- Catering Companies: Typically offer competitive pay for creating pastries for events and large orders.
- Hotels and Resorts: High-end hotels like The Davenport Grand Hotel provide premium salaries due to higher volume and clientele expectations.
- Specialty Bakeries: Baking-focused shops can offer great opportunities for creative chefs though wages might vary based on size and popularity.
- Restaurants and Cafés: Pastry Chefs here prepare dessert menus and pastries; pay scales depend on the restaurant style—from casual to fine dining.
Each type of establishment influences salary based on brand prestige, customer base, and complexity of pastry offerings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Pastry Chefs
Those interested in similar careers might consider roles that share culinary and pastry expertise, offering alternative career pathways.
Similar roles include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, all involving complementary culinary skills applicable in multiple hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Spokane-Valley
Pastry Chefs should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand workplace rights.
- Federal labor regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Washington State-specific labor laws and worker protections are detailed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
- Food safety and health standards, critical for Pastry Chefs, are governed by the Washington State Department of Health.