Pastry Chef Salary in Topeka, KS
Pastry Chefs in Topeka, KS, 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 Topeka is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing interest in specialized dessert and baked good preparation in the region.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Topeka, KS?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Topeka can vary based on experience level and specific employers. Below is a breakdown of average earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 | $79,040.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Topeka Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is mostly reliant on salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Pastry Chef Salary in Topeka vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn on average about $33.00 per hour and $68,640.00 annually.
The salary for Pastry Chefs in Topeka aligns closely with the national average, indicating competitive pay considering local living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Topeka for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown Topeka: $35.00 per hour
- Westboro: $34.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Downtown Topeka tend to earn the highest wages in the vicinity, making it an attractive location for employment.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Topeka?
Several key factors can influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Topeka:
- Experience Level: More experienced Pastry Chefs typically command higher wages due to their refined skills and expertise.
- Specialized Skills: Mastery in cake decoration, chocolate work, and artisan pastry techniques may lead to increased pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty bakeries often offers higher salaries compared to casual dining or small bakeries.
- Location: Pastry Chefs in busier or more affluent neighborhoods might see better compensation.
- Certifications: Holding recognized qualifications can improve earning potential.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Topeka
Becoming a Pastry Chef in Topeka involves several pathways and educational opportunities:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Washburn University Culinary Arts Program, which offers an associate's degree in Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, provide solid foundational training.
- Advanced Training: The Washburn Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program offers a comprehensive two-year associate degree including food science and service management, tailored for culinary careers.
- Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as ServSafe Certification ensures a strong understanding of food safety standards, while the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) certification validates pastry-specific expertise.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a Pastry Cook or assistant in a bakery or restaurant helps develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Topeka
Some of the main employers looking for skilled Pastry Chefs in Topeka include:
- The White Linen
- RowHouse Restaurant
- Blue Moose Bar & Grill
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Topeka Work At
Pastry Chefs can find employment in a wide range of establishments:
- High-end Restaurants and Hotels: Prestigious venues often pay higher salaries reflecting the quality demanded in their pastry offerings.
- Specialty Bakeries and Patisseries: These establishments usually provide competitive pay to attract skilled artisans.
- Casual or Fast-Casual Dining: Opportunities exist but tend to offer more modest pay.
- Event Catering Companies: Experience in catering can enhance a Pastry Chef's earnings depending on the client base.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary ranges for Pastry Chefs in Topeka.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Topeka for Pastry Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to Pastry Chefs, you might consider these similar roles:
These include Pastry Cook, Baker, and Executive Chef, all of which require overlapping culinary skills and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Topeka
Pastry Chefs should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor law information.
- The Official State of Kansas website offers resources on state-specific employment laws.
- For local government regulations and resources, consult the City of Topeka's official website.