Pastry Chef Salary in Wilmington, NC
Pastry Chefs in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Wilmington is currently growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the area.
How Much Does a Pastry Chef Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Pastry Chef in Wilmington varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings at different stages in their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Pastry Chefs in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Pastry Chefs generally do not earn tips as they predominantly work behind the scenes creating desserts and baked goods. Their income typically comes solely from their hourly wage or salary, without bonus tips from customers.
Pastry Chef Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Chefs earn about $17.50 per hour or roughly $36,400 annually.
Compared to this, Pastry Chefs in Wilmington earn a bit less at $16.50 per hour and $34,320 yearly. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Pastry Chefs
Nearby areas to Wilmington offer slightly different pay rates for Pastry Chefs:
- Downtown: $17.00 per hour
- Riverfront: $18.00 per hour
Pastry Chefs working in Riverfront enjoy the highest hourly rate among nearby locations, which could be relevant for those considering commuting options.
What Influences a Pastry Chef’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors influence the salary of a Pastry Chef in Wilmington:
- Experience and Expertise: More skilled Pastry Chefs with extensive baking techniques often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and specialty bakeries generally pay more compared to fast casual or chain dining.
- Certifications and Education: Holding industry-recognized credentials can enhance pay prospects.
- Work Schedule and Shifts: Pastry Chefs working night or early morning shifts might receive shift differentials.
- Local Demand: In Wilmington, rising demand for gourmet and artisanal desserts bolsters earning potential.
How To Become a Pastry Chef in Wilmington
If you aspire to become a Pastry Chef in Wilmington, here are some key steps to consider:
- Pursue Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program which emphasizes baking and pastry arts with practical experience and certification opportunities.
- Attend Workshops: Short-term courses like the UNC Wilmington Continuing Education Baking and Pastry Workshops help sharpen skills for beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required to ensure proper hygiene and safety compliance.
- Earn Industry Credentials: Certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation can significantly boost your professional profile.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Chefs in Wilmington
Several well-regarded businesses in Wilmington actively seek out talented Pastry Chefs, including:
- PinPoint Restaurant
- True Blue Butcher & Baker
- Dough House Pizza Co
Establishments That Pastry Chefs in Wilmington Work At
Pastry Chefs in Wilmington typically work in diverse food service settings, each impacting earnings differently:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments usually offer higher salaries due to the prestige and quality expected.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: Skilled Pastry Chefs can command good pay preparing intricate desserts and pastries.
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often provide steady work and higher compensation for experienced Pastry Chefs.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: These typically offer lower salaries but more entry-level opportunities.
Where you choose to work can significantly influence your salary and career growth prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Pastry Chefs
For culinary professionals interested in related career paths, here are some similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These roles include Pastry Cook, Pastry Chef, and Chef, which share overlapping skills and duties in food preparation and kitchen management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Chefs in Wilmington
Pastry Chefs should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements relevant to their employment in Wilmington and North Carolina:
- Information on state labor laws and employment rights can be found on the North Carolina official government website.
- Federal labor regulations and workplace standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.