Pastry Chef Salary in Syracuse, NY
Pastry Chefs in Syracuse, NY, in 2026, 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 Syracuse is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Syracuse, NY?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Syracuse varies based on experience level and skill, with entry-level positions paying less than those with significant 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 | $78,880.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Syracuse Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as their role is mostly behind the scenes in preparing baked goods and desserts rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically derived from their base salary alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Syracuse vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $33.00 per hour and approximately $68,640.00 per year.
In comparison, salaries for Pastry Chefs in Syracuse are closely aligned with the national averages, reflecting a competitive wage within the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Syracuse for Pastry Chefs
When considering specific neighborhoods in and around Syracuse, salaries can slightly vary:
- Downtown Syracuse: $35.00 per hour
- University Hill: $36.00 per hour
These areas offer marginally higher pay, likely due to a concentration of high-end dining establishments and specialty bakeries.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Syracuse?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Syracuse:
- Experience and Expertise: Advanced skills in pastry and baking and years of experience can significantly increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, specialty bakeries, or hotels usually offers higher wages compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Completing culinary programs or acquiring certifications like those offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can enhance salary prospects.
- Location Within the City: Pastry Chefs working in high-demand or prestigious neighborhoods tend to earn more.
- Skill Set Variety: Skills like cake decorating, chocolate artistry, and menu development can lead to higher pay.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Syracuse
Building a career as a Pastry Chef in Syracuse involves several steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs such as the Onondaga Community College Culinary Arts Program provide strong foundational training including pastry-specific courses.
- Consider Broader Food Studies: The Syracuse University Food Studies Program offers interdisciplinary learning that may be beneficial.
- Gain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential for working safely and meeting health regulations.
- Earn Professional Certification: Pursuing credentials from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can demonstrate professionalism and boost employability.
- Obtain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level positions allow hands-on learning and skill development in bakery environments.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Syracuse
Several well-known establishments in Syracuse frequently seek skilled Pastry Chefs, including:
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Marriott Syracuse Downtown
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Syracuse Work At
Pastry Chefs find employment in a range of establishments. These include:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide consistent work and moderate pay, often with less specialization.
- Specialty Bakeries and Patisseries: Typically offer higher wages due to the need for advanced skills and creativity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay premium salaries as part of their commitment to quality dining experiences.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Demand diverse pastry skills and may offer variable pay based on event size and complexity.
The type and prestige of the establishment heavily influence the salary of a Pastry Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Syracuse for Pastry Chefs
If you're exploring careers related to Pastry Chefs, here are a few similar roles to consider that involve culinary expertise:
These include roles such as Pastry Cook, Baker, and Chef, each offering unique opportunities in the culinary world.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Syracuse
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Pastry Chefs in Syracuse to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- For information on federal labor laws, visit the Department of Labor website.
- The New York State Department of Labor website offers state-specific employment rules and guidance.
- Local employment resources and regulations are available through the official City of Syracuse website.