One of the best jobs you can be hired for in the culinary arts is the position of executive pastry chef. These individuals have a wide variety of food, management and administrative abilities compared to their counterparts. In most cases, these individuals report to the Head Chef and help with the menu planning, cost control, inventory, new dessert creation and training. Also, these individuals are expected to follow and learn about new trends and techniques, to help their establishment grow and earn customer loyalty. But with all these responsibilities, you may wonder what is the average executive pastry chef salary, and what factors influence yearly wages?
The Relationship Between Education and Salary
In the past, it was possible to be hired as an entry level pastry chef without a degree or certification. Today, these opportunities still exist – but are extremely limited. But what does this have to do with becoming an executive pastry chef and the salary you will earn? Just imagine, if it is difficult to be hired in an entry level position – imagine the challenges you will encounter as you try and progress down the path of a pastry chef career!
While experience does count for something, and does play a role in the salary earned as an executive pastry chef, education matters too. The fact is, graduates earn at least $500 more per year. However, this figure can vary based on location and years of experience. Also, an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in the Pastry Arts can open up even higher paying jobs in well-know restaurants and casinos, which generally pay more than average.
Other Educational Opportunities that Make a Difference
Did you know that completing an externship can greatly influence the executive pastry chef pay you earn? The fact is, pastry creation is not just an American culinary art. The creation of these delectable delights has been heavily influenced by European baking and traditions. According to a Starchefs.com survey, completing an externship can increase a salary by at least $2,000 per year.
Average Growth and Wages
It is no secret that the pastry arts are a highly competitive culinary niche, especially if you decide to specialize in cake decorating or chocolate creations. But if you complete a degree, will there be enough jobs for graduates in today’s marketplace? While the employment rates can vary between states the average falls between 8% and 10% in each state. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, and variations can be as low as 2% to as high as 13%.
The average executive pastry chef salary can vary depending on demand, competition and location. It is no surprise that the highest paying (and most competitive) markets are in New York City, California and Florida – with the highest earners averaging around $60,000 per year. However, before you accept an opportunity based on pastry chef wages alone, you may want to stop and take other factors into consideration. For example, daily living expenses and housing can be higher in these areas, and can make a huge dent in an individual’s average yearly income.
If you envision yourself in the pastry arts, chances are you dream of becoming an executive pastry chef. While it will take time, experience and a lot of hard work to achieve this goal – there are some aspects (such as your education) that will greatly impact not only your wages, but your level of success.
