Cook Salary in Bloomington, IN
Cooks in Bloomington, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.12 per hour, which translates to about $604.80 per week, $2,620.80 per month, and $31,449.60 per year.
The job outlook for cooks in Bloomington is positive, with employment expected to grow at a rate of 5% per year, indicating steady demand and opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Bloomington, IN?
The salary of a Cook in Bloomington varies based on experience and skill, but the following table provides an overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.98 | $479.20 | $2,072.53 | $24,902.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.12 | $604.80 | $2,620.80 | $31,449.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.07 | $762.80 | $3,302.60 | $39,625.60 |
Do Cooks in Bloomington Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily based on their salary or hourly wage.
Cook Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of $15.12, corresponding to an annual salary of about $31,449.60. Bloomington's average salary matches the national average, making it competitive for this occupation.
The alignment with the national average indicates that Bloomington offers salaries for Cooks that are comparable with the broader market across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Cooks, providing useful options for commuting professionals:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.00 per hour
These locations may offer better earning potential due to their commercial density and demand for experienced kitchen staff.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Bloomington?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Bloomington:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks or those trained in specialized cuisines often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Gourmet restaurants and hotels tend to pay more compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications such as ServSafe can improve employment prospects and salary.
- Work Hours: Shift differentials for evenings or weekends can enhance total earnings.
- Local Demand: Seasonal events or university-related demand in Bloomington may raise salary offers.
How To Become a Cook in Bloomington
To pursue a career as a Cook in Bloomington, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides hands-on training and culinary fundamentals.
- Gain Practical Experience: Programs such as the Monroe County Career Center Culinary Program offer opportunities for work-based learning and skill development.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers.
- Advanced Credentials: Pursuing certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can boost career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Bloomington
Several key employers in Bloomington are regularly looking for skilled Cooks:
- Indiana University Dining Services
- IU Health Bloomington Hospital
- Meadowood Retirement Community
Establishments That Cooks in Bloomington Work At
Cooks typically find jobs in a variety of settings, each affecting their pay range and job responsibilities:
- Casual Restaurants: Often the entry point for many cooks, these establishments offer moderate wages with opportunities to learn diverse cooking styles.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These venues focus on speed and consistency, usually providing steady work but sometimes lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: These can offer higher pay and more complex cooking duties, especially for cooks specializing in banquet or room service preparation.
- Health Care and Retirement Communities: Employers like Meadowood may provide stable employment with benefits and varied kitchen tasks.
The type of establishment shapes both compensation and career growth options for Cooks in Bloomington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Cooks
If you are interested in exploring roles related to Cook, here are a few similar careers in the hospitality industry:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef, all involving culinary skills with varying levels of responsibility and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Bloomington
Understanding labor laws and taxation is essential for Cooks in Bloomington to protect their rights and manage their finances effectively.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website to learn about wage laws, work hours, and employee rights.
- The Indiana Department of Workforce Development provides state-specific employment resources, including wage laws and workforce programs.