Cook Salary in Bend, OR
Cooks in Bend, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $20.41 per hour, which translates to about $816.40 per week, $3,537.73 per month, and $42,452.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Bend is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding opportunity for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Bend, OR?
The salary of a Cook in Bend varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Here is a general look at earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,433.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.41 | $816.40 | $3,537.73 | $42,452.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.34 | $1,253.60 | $5,441.73 | $65,187.20 |
Do Cooks in Bend Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their earnings are mostly limited to wages and salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Bend vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.07 per hour, which translates to approximately $33,425.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Bend earn notably higher wages at about $20.41 per hour and $42,452.80 annually.
This premium pay may be influenced by local market conditions, cost of living, and demand in the Bend area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bend for Cooks
Nearby locations offering competitive salaries for Cooks include:
- Sunriver: $21.27 per hour
- Portland: $20.27 per hour
Cooks commuting or relocating to Sunriver might find slightly better pay, while Portland provides opportunities in a larger metropolitan area with varied food service establishments.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Bend?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Bend:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks who specialize in certain cuisines or techniques often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels tends to pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Location Within the Area: Salaries can differ depending on the neighborhood or city proximity.
- Work Schedule: Night or weekend shifts might come with premium pay.
- Certifications and Training: Additional qualifications can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Cook in Bend
To start a career as a Cook in Bend, consider the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Cascade Culinary Institute in Bend offers comprehensive culinary programs that cover foundational and advanced cooking techniques, providing essential training for aspiring Cooks.
- Obtain Required Permits: Securing a Food Handler's Permit is mandatory for all food service workers in Oregon to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions can provide valuable hands-on skills and exposure to kitchen operations.
- Develop Key Skills: Focus on knife skills, food safety, and understanding culinary terminology.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Bend
Some notable employers in Bend seeking Cooks include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Bend Work At
Cooks in Bend work across various types of foodservice establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer a moderate pace and often maintain steady staffing needs, sometimes with tips or bonuses.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Positions here often have faster turnover and may offer lower base pay but provide steady hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may offer higher wages and benefits due to scale and clientele.
- Catering and Event Kitchens: Roles in catering often involve variable hours but can pay competitively based on event demands.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with fine dining and hotels typically offering the highest earning potential for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bend for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to cooking, here are some similar roles to explore:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor positions, each with related culinary responsibilities and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Bend
Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities at both the state and federal levels to protect their rights and finances.
- Visit the Oregon government website for official information on state regulations and worker rights.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's site for federal labor laws and employment guidelines.