Cook Salary in Bismarck, ND
Cooks in Bismarck, ND, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Bismarck is expected to be growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market with increasing opportunities in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Bismarck, ND?
The salary of a Cook in Bismarck can vary based on experience and skill level, but here’s a breakdown by experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Cooks in Bismarck Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income is primarily based on wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Bismarck vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $17.00 per hour, which amounts to about $35,360.00 annually.
In comparison, Cooks in Bismarck earn slightly more, averaging $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually. This indicates that Bismarck offers competitive wages for Cooks relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bismarck for Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Cooks include:
- Downtown Bismarck: $19.00 per hour
- North Bismarck: $18.50 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Bismarck can expect better pay compared to other local areas, making it a desirable location for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Bismarck?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Bismarck:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills typically earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants may offer better compensation than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certification and Training: Cooks with culinary education or certifications can command higher wages.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Economic Conditions: Economic factors in Bismarck and surrounding areas influence salary scales.
How To Become a Cook in Bismarck
To start a career as a Cook in Bismarck, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in vocational programs such as the Bismarck State College Culinary Arts Program, offering hands-on cooking and kitchen management training.
- Explore Cultural Cuisine Training: Programs like the United Tribes Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide exposure to both traditional and modern culinary methods.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for food handling compliance.
- Consider Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate your culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, even in entry-level roles, is essential for building culinary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Bismarck
Some of the top employers in Bismarck seeking skilled Cooks include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Establishments That Cooks in Bismarck Work At
Cooks in Bismarck find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These are popular and offer steady work but may have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Faster-paced with slightly lower pay but more hours available.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher pay potential due to the skill level and service expectations.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Provide opportunities for varied culinary experience and sometimes higher salaries.
The type of establishment influences the wages a Cook earns, with upscale venues usually providing the highest salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bismarck for Cooks
If you're interested in career paths similar to Cook, consider these related roles that share common skills and could offer different opportunities:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, each offering unique challenges and potential salary ranges in the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Bismarck
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements that affect their employment in Bismarck and North Dakota.
- Details on federal labor laws and regulations are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment standards and labor laws can be found on the North Dakota Department of Labor website.