Pastry Chef Salary in Thornton, CO
Pastry Chefs in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $34.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,360.00 per week, $5,893.33 per month, and $70,720.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and growth in this area of the culinary arts.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Thornton varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.00 | $1,560.00 | $6,760.00 | $81,120.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Thornton Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips since their work is mostly done in kitchens and behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are usually based on salary or hourly wages alone.
Pastry Chef Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn an average of around $34.00 per hour, which corresponds to roughly $70,720.00 per year.
Pastry Chefs in Thornton earn about the same as the national average hourly and annual salary, reflecting competitive pay in this region consistent with the broader U.S. market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Pastry Chefs
Nearby cities with higher or comparable pay for Pastry Chefs include:
- Commerce City: $34.00 per hour
- Westminster: $34.00 per hour
Salaries in these nearby locations align closely with Thornton, ensuring regional consistency in pay rates for Pastry Chef positions.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Thornton?
Several factors affect how much a Pastry Chef can earn in Thornton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs with advanced baking and decorating skills usually command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, or specialty bakeries generally offers better pay than chain or casual dining establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education or certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian enhance earning potential.
- Location and Employer Size: Larger employers or those in high-demand areas may provide higher wages.
- Specialties and Menu Complexity: Chefs producing artisanal or highly detailed pastries often earn more due to skill needs.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Thornton
To start a career as a Pastry Chef in Thornton, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in a Culinary Arts Program: Local programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Emily Griffith Technical College offer comprehensive training in pastry techniques preparing students for entry-level culinary positions.
- Pursue Specialized Pastry Education: Obtaining a Pastry Arts Certificate from institutions such as the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provides focused skill development in baking and pastry arts.
- Get Food Safety Certified: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Professional Pastry Certification: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates pastry skills and knowledge, boosting employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Thornton
Notable employers in Thornton hiring Pastry Chefs include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Whole Foods Market
- Marriott International
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Thornton Work At
Pastry Chefs find work across a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer stable employment but moderate pay depending on the restaurant's scale.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have standardized menus and pay, possibly with less creativity allowed but steady hours.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Provide opportunities for higher pay and more complex pastry production.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: Tend to offer higher salaries due to craftsmanship and skill requirements.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, with luxury and specialty venues usually paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Pastry Chefs
If you're interested in related roles close to Pastry Chef positions, consider these career options:
These include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef, each offering unique culinary challenges and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Thornton
Pastry Chefs should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- For Colorado-specific laws and resources, visit the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- To learn about federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers comprehensive information.