Cook Salary in Berwyn, IL
Cooks in Berwyn, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.50 per hour, which translates to about $740.00 per week, $3,206.67 per month, and $38,480.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Berwyn is experiencing a positive growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for culinary professionals in this area for the near future.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Berwyn, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Berwyn varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages of a Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,206.67 | $38,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.40 | $1,216.00 | $5,253.33 | $63,232.00 |
Do Cooks in Berwyn Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work largely happens behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings are mainly based on their set salary or hourly wage.
Cook Salary in Berwyn vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, which is about $31,200.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Cooks in Berwyn earn a higher hourly wage of $18.50 and an annual salary of approximately $38,480.00.
This difference reflects Berwyn’s cost of living and the demand for skilled culinary professionals in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Berwyn for Cooks
Cooks working in nearby areas can expect these average hourly wages:
- Cicero, IL: $19.00 per hour
- Oak Park, IL: $22.00 per hour
Working in Oak Park offers the highest pay compared to Berwyn and Cicero, making it a desirable option for Cooks seeking better compensation close to Berwyn.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Berwyn?
Several factors shape how much a Cook can expect to earn in Berwyn:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks with advanced cooking techniques typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Specialized Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications can increase earning potential.
- Work Shifts and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Berwyn’s cost of living and economic vitality help determine salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Berwyn
Starting your career as a Cook in Berwyn involves several key steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: You may consider attending specialized culinary schools or programs such as the French Pastry School in Chicago, which offers hands-on training in pastry and cooking arts.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health regulations and are often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions, internships, or apprenticeships in local restaurants help develop the required skills.
- Network and Build Professional Relationships: Engage with local culinary communities and hospitality professionals to improve employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Berwyn
Berwyn is home to several employers frequently seeking skilled Cooks:
- HMSHost at Chicago O'Hare International Airport
- Loyola University Health System
- Wingstop
Establishments That Cooks in Berwyn Work At
Cooks in Berwyn find roles in a range of dining and foodservice establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate wages and an opportunity to develop varied cooking skills.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often faster-paced, these may provide consistent hours but slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and Catering Facilities: Typically provide higher pay and benefits, catering to a more upscale clientele.
- Hospitality and Institutional Settings: Such as university dining services or airport concessions, where pay and work environment vary.
The type and prestige of the establishment notably influence salary levels for Cooks, with upscale or specialty venues offering the greatest pay potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Berwyn for Cooks
If you are exploring related career options in hospitality, consider roles similar to Cook:
These include Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook positions, each offering unique responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Berwyn
Cooks in Berwyn should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor regulations to ensure their rights and obligations are met.
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards.
- Refer to the State of Illinois website for employment and labor information for state-specific guidelines and labor rights.