Cook Salary in Buckeye, AZ
Cooks in Buckeye, AZ, in 2026, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Buckeye is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Buckeye, AZ?
The salary of a Cook in Buckeye varies depending on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings by experience:
| 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) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Cooks in Buckeye, AZ Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work takes place primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings usually come from their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Buckeye, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of approximately $14.50 per hour, which adds up to about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Buckeye enjoy a higher average wage of $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually, reflecting the regional demand and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buckeye for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Verrado: $18.00 per hour
- Sundance: $17.50 per hour
Cooks working in Verrado can expect slightly higher wages than those in Sundance or Buckeye.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Buckeye?
Several factors influence the salary of a Cook in Buckeye:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks tend to command higher pay than entry-level workers.
- Skillset and Specialization: Expertise in cuisines or cooking techniques may increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants generally pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts might have higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education and food safety certifications can enhance earning opportunities.
How To Become a Cook in Buckeye, AZ
Starting a career as a Cook in Buckeye involves several steps and opportunities for education and certification.
Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the Estrella Mountain Community College Culinary Arts Program in nearby Avondale provide valuable hands-on experience and culinary knowledge.
Mandatory Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the Maricopa County Food Handler's Card is required for food service workers in Buckeye. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is widely recognized and preferred by employers for demonstrating food safety competence.
Gaining Practical Experience: Entry-level positions, apprenticeships, or internships offer real-world kitchen exposure.
Combining education and certification with practical experience can boost job prospects and salary potential significantly.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Buckeye, AZ
Major employers looking to hire Cooks in the Buckeye area include:
- The Tack Room
- Century Golf Partners Management
- The Haymaker Verrado
Establishments That Cooks in Buckeye, AZ Work At
Cooks in Buckeye are employed in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady work and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food Chains: Typically pay entry-level wages but can provide rapid employment.
- Golf Clubs and Resorts: Like those run by Century Golf Partners, which may offer higher wages with added benefits.
- Hotel and Event Venues: Often require experienced Cooks and can offer better pay scales.
The type of establishment plays a role in the salary and advancement opportunities available to Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buckeye, AZ for Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to being a Cook, here are some similar career options to consider:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Commis Chef, roles with overlapping skillsets and growth potential in the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Buckeye, AZ
Cooks should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for detailed labor laws and regulations.
- The Arizona Industrial Commission provides resources on state labor laws and workplace safety.
- For local rules and information, the City of Buckeye, AZ's official site is helpful.