Cook Salary in Brownsville, TX
Cooks in Brownsville, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.79 per hour, which translates to about $511.60 per week, $2,216.93 per month, and $26,603.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Brownsville is experiencing positive growth at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in demand for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Brownsville, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Brownsville can vary based on experience and skills. Here is a breakdown of how earnings typically differ across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.37 | $374.80 | $1,616.53 | $19,477.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,216.93 | $26,603.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.45 | $698.00 | $3,015.33 | $36,296.00 |
Do Cooks in Brownsville Earn Tips?
Typically, Cooks do not earn tips since their work is mainly performed in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their income is generally composed of their hourly wages without additional tip-based earnings.
Cook Salary in Brownsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of around $14.50, amounting to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to this, Cooks in Brownsville earn somewhat less, with an average hourly wage of $12.79 and yearly earnings of about $26,603.20.
This difference can be influenced by factors such as cost of living, local economy, and demand for culinary professionals in the Brownsville area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Brownsville for Cooks
Examining nearby locations, some areas offer higher pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- North Brownsville: $14.00 per hour
Cooks working in North Brownsville may find slightly better pay than those in Downtown or other parts of the city.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Brownsville?
Several factors play a role in determining the salary of a Cook in Brownsville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks with strong culinary skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels may lead to better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Culinary Certifications: Possessing certifications can enhance a Cook’s qualifications and earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials that increase overall pay.
How To Become a Cook in Brownsville
Becoming a Cook in Brownsville involves several steps to acquire the skills and certifications necessary for employment:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Consider programs such as the Texas Southmost College Culinary Arts Program or South Texas College Culinary Arts Program, which provide hands-on and theoretical culinary education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Food Handler Certification is mandatory in Texas for food service workers, and the ServSafe Manager Certification is recommended for those pursuing supervisory positions.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level jobs or apprenticeships in kitchens help develop essential cooking skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Brownsville
Several well-known employers in Brownsville look for skilled Cooks:
- Denny's
- Olive Garden
- Kumori Sushi
Establishments That Cooks in Brownsville Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a range of establishments in Brownsville, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate wages and opportunities to prepare diverse menus.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Usually characterized by faster-paced environments with somewhat lower salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may offer higher pay and benefits due to their scale and clientele.
- Catering Services: Cooks here may experience varying pay depending on event frequency and scale.
The differences in salary across these establishments often reflect the complexity of dishes prepared, customer volume, and business model.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Brownsville for Cooks
If you are considering a career similar to Cook, here are a few related roles worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, each with distinct responsibilities and potential salary variations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Brownsville
It is important for Cooks to understand relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Texas government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, wage standards, and worker rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official site offers valuable federal resources on labor laws, occupational safety, and wage regulations.