Pastry Chef Salary in Spokane, WA
Pastry Chefs in Spokane, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $25.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,000.00 per week, $4,333.33 per month, and $52,000.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Spokane is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising job prospects and a rising market for skilled pastry professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Spokane varies according to experience and establishment, but the following table presents a general overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.20 | $768.00 | $3,328.00 | $39,936.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.20 | $1,288.00 | $5,563.33 | $66,976.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Spokane Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen, focusing on baking and dessert preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their salary or hourly wages.
Pastry Chef Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $24.00 per hour, amounting to approximately $49,920.00 per year.
Comparatively, Pastry Chefs in Spokane make slightly more on average, earning a median hourly wage of $25.00 and approximately $52,000.00 annually. This difference reflects local demand and cost of living factors that favor somewhat higher wages in Spokane.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Pastry Chefs
The salary for Pastry Chefs in nearby areas of Spokane can vary slightly, with some neighborhoods offering higher pay:
- Downtown Spokane: $27.50 per hour
- South Hill: $28.00 per hour
These areas tend to have higher-end bakeries and establishments that compensate Pastry Chefs at a premium for their skills.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Spokane?
Several key factors influence how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Spokane:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Chefs with extensive experience or mastery in complex pastry techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies usually means better pay than fast food outlets or casual diners.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in artisan baking, chocolate work, or cake decorating can boost salary potential.
- Certification and Education: Holding credentials such as Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) or completing culinary training can increase employability and earnings.
- Work Hours and Responsibilities: Managing a bakery section or supervising junior staff may come with additional compensation.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Spokane
Becoming a Pastry Chef in Spokane involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs such as Inland Northwest Culinary Academy at Spokane Community College or attend workshops offered by The Culinary Stone to gain foundational pastry arts skills.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Achieving certifications like ServSafe Certification enhances knowledge of food safety and sanitation, essential for all culinary roles.
- Earn Professional Pastry Credentials: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) certification by the American Culinary Federation is valuable for career advancement.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start as a pastry cook or kitchen assistant to build skills before advancing to Pastry Chef roles.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Spokane
Several notable organizations in Spokane actively recruit skilled Pastry Chefs:
- Northern Quest Resort & Casino
- Davenport Hotels
- Luna Restaurant
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Spokane Work At
Pastry Chefs typically find employment across a variety of settings that influence their salaries and work styles.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate salaries and opportunities to develop baking skills.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Such establishments generally provide higher pay and involve creating intricate dessert menus.
- Bakeries and Patisseries: Specialized pastry shops may offer competitive wages and focus exclusively on baking arts.
- Catering Services: Often value creativity and volume baking skills; compensation varies accordingly.
The type and prestige of the establishment can make a significant difference in Pastry Chef earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in hospitality roles related to Pastry Chef, consider these similar careers that also require culinary expertise:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, all roles that involve complementary culinary skills and offer various opportunities in the hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Spokane
Pastry Chefs should be aware of federal and state labor regulations to ensure proper working conditions and compliance with tax obligations.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws and employment rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific regulations in Washington, including workplace safety and wage laws, consult the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.