Pastry Cook Salary in Chicago, IL
Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.86 per hour, which translates to about $834.40 per week, $3,615.73 per month, and $43,388.80 per year.
The demand for Pastry Cooks in Chicago is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this culinary field.
How Much Does a Pastry Cook Make in Chicago, IL?
The salary of a Pastry Cook in Chicago can vary depending on experience, skill level, and type of employer. Here's a breakdown based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.28 | $691.20 | $2,993.60 | $35,923.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.86 | $834.40 | $3,615.73 | $43,388.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.17 | $1,006.80 | $4,352.80 | $52,353.60 |
Do Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL Earn Tips?
Pastry Cooks generally do not earn tips since they primarily work behind the scenes preparing desserts and baked goods, with limited direct customer interaction. Their income is usually based solely on salary or hourly wage.
Pastry Cook Salary in Chicago, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Pastry Cooks earn an average of around $20.86 per hour, which equals about $43,388.80 annually.
Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL earn approximately the same as the national average at around $20.86 per hour with an annual salary close to $43,388.80.
This parity reflects Chicago's stable market and cost of living for culinary professionals in this field.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chicago, IL for Pastry Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay for Pastry Cooks:
- Des Plaines: $22.20 per hour
- Evanston: $21.60 per hour
Pastry Cooks working in Des Plaines or Evanston may earn marginally higher wages than those in Chicago, but differences remain within 5-7% of the city’s average pay.
What Influences a Pastry Cook’s Salary in Chicago, IL?
Several factors affect the earnings of a Pastry Cook in Chicago:
- Experience and Expertise: Pastry Cooks with advanced skills in decorating, baking techniques, and specialty desserts can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or luxury bakeries usually offers better salaries than casual or fast casual eateries.
- Certifications and Education: Professional baking and pastry certifications boost credibility and earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Early morning or holiday shifts may include shift differentials improving overall pay.
- Location Specifics: Proximity to high-end markets or affluent neighborhoods can influence wage levels.
How To Become a Pastry Cook in Chicago, IL
To kickstart a career as a Pastry Cook in Chicago, consider the following steps:
- Formal Education: Enroll in specialized culinary programs such as those at Kendall College at National Louis University, which offers a comprehensive Baking and Pastry program focusing on classical and modern techniques.
- Specialized Training: The French Pastry School provides hands-on training with master chefs, ideal for aspiring Pastry Cooks looking to refine their skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level bakery roles or assisting experienced Pastry Cooks helps build necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL
Some notable employers regularly looking for skilled Pastry Cooks in Chicago include:
- Eataly
- DO & CO
- Lettuce Entertain You
- Misericordia Home
- Starbucks
Establishments That Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL Work At
Pastry Cooks are typically employed in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: These locations offer higher salaries due to the complexity of pastries and desserts required.
- Specialty Bakeries and Patisseries: Focused on artisanal confections, these often pay more for skilled Pastry Cooks.
- Casual and Fast Casual Eateries: Usually offer moderate pay, with simpler pastries and baked goods on the menu.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Store Bakeries: Employ larger numbers of Pastry Cooks but typically offer lower wages compared to specialty stores.
Salary differences across establishments stem from the skill level needed, volume of production, and clientele expectations.
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Labor Laws and Taxes for Pastry Cooks in Chicago, IL
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Pastry Cooks working in Chicago.
- Illinois state-specific employment resources and labor laws can be found on the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Information about federal labor laws and employment standards is available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For local compliance and regulatory information, visit the City of Chicago official website.