Cook Salary in Billings, MT
Cooks in Billings, MT, in 2026, earn approximately $16.72 per hour, which translates to about $668.80 per week, $2,898.13 per month, and $34,777.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and employment growth in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Billings, MT?
The salary for a Cook in Billings varies by experience level and expertise, with starting wages typically lower and top earners making significantly more. Here's a breakdown of approximate earnings by experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.81 | $552.40 | $2,391.47 | $28,700.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.72 | $668.80 | $2,898.13 | $34,777.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.24 | $809.60 | $3,507.73 | $42,099.20 |
Do Cooks in Billings Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in kitchens rather than customer-facing. Their compensation is generally based on hourly wages or salaries without tip earnings.
Cook Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $18.99 per hour, which comes out to roughly $39,499.20 per year.
Compared to this national average, Cooks in Billings earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $16.72 and an annual salary of about $34,777.60. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Cooks, with some locations paying more than Billings itself:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- West End: $18.00 per hour
Cooks working in nearby Downtown or West End neighborhoods may find better pay rates compared to Billings' average.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Billings?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Billings, including:
- Experience and skill level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills can command higher pay.
- Type of establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers higher wages compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Work hours and shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include premium pay rates.
- Certifications and training: Additional qualifications can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries.
- Local demand and cost of living: Economic factors in Billings influence wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Billings
To become a Cook in Billings, aspiring individuals can follow several paths to enhance their skills and employability:
- Enroll in culinary training programs: Institutions like City College at Montana State University Billings Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive hands-on and theoretical culinary education.
- Attend specialized workshops: Montana State University Billings offers Continuing Education Culinary Workshops focused on practical skills and techniques.
- Obtain food safety certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Montana Food Manager Certification are valuable and often required for kitchen roles.
- Gain on-the-job experience: Working in various food service settings helps build practical abilities and career advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Billings
Some of the notable employers currently hiring Cooks in the Billings area include:
- Yellowstone Country Club
- Sodexo
- Northern Hotel
Establishments That Cooks in Billings Work At
Cooks in Billings typically find employment in a broad range of establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants: These provide regular hours and entry-level opportunities but often with modest pay.
- Fast casual eateries: A popular option with varied menu offerings, where pay scales are often entry to mid-level.
- Hotels and country clubs: Usually offer higher wages and benefits due to service expectations and clientele.
- Catering and banquets: Seasonal or event-based work that may pay more during peak demand times.
The variety of workplace environments means salary rates can vary widely depending on the type of establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Cooks
If you're interested in related hospitality roles, here are some careers similar to Cook:
These positions include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Head Chef, each offering different responsibilities and compensation levels within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Billings
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations that affect their employment conditions and paychecks:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand nationwide employment standards.
- For Montana-specific labor laws, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry website provides resources and updated policies affecting Cooks.