Cook Salary in Cedar Rapids, IA
Cooks in Cedar Rapids, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.84 per hour, which translates to about $633.60 per week, $2,745.60 per month, and $32,947.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Cedar Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Cedar Rapids, IA?
The salary of a Cook in Cedar Rapids varies based on experience level, workplace, and other factors. Below is a breakdown of earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.12 | $404.80 | $1,758.13 | $21,834.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,745.60 | $32,947.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.80 | $992.00 | $4,306.67 | $51,584.00 |
Do Cooks in Cedar Rapids Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer interaction. Their income generally comes from their set wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Cedar Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of around $15.84, with an annual salary near $32,947.20.
The salary of Cooks in Cedar Rapids closely matches the national average, reflecting local market standards and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cedar Rapids for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Czech Village: $16.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Cedar Rapids can offer about $1.00 more per hour compared to Czech Village, potentially providing better earning opportunities for Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Cedar Rapids?
Experience is a major factor; Cooks with years of practice and specialized skills command higher pay. Building expertise in certain cuisines or cooking styles can enhance earnings.
Type of Establishment also matters. Upscale restaurants and hotels usually pay more than casual dining or fast-food chains.
Certifications and Training improve salary prospects. Those with food safety knowledge or culinary certifications are valued more highly by employers.
Shift Hours and flexibility can influence wages. Evening or weekend shifts sometimes carry premiums.
How To Become a Cook in Cedar Rapids
Starting a career as a Cook involves developing culinary skills and meeting industry standards. Here are some pathways in Cedar Rapids:
- Kirkwood Community College Culinary Arts Program offers hands-on training and practical cooking experience focused on foodservice and business skills.
- Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC in nearby Ankeny provides fine dining and culinary education with gourmet dinner series and intensive training.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for food safety knowledge and compliance with hygiene regulations.
- Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates foundational culinary expertise, beneficial for entry-level Cooks.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Cedar Rapids
Several major local employers are known for hiring Cooks regularly:
- UnityPoint Health
- Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
- Cedar Rapids Community School District
Establishments That Cooks in Cedar Rapids Work At
Cooks typically work in a variety of settings such as casual dining, fast casual, cafeterias, and institutional kitchens. The type of establishment affects earnings.
In fine dining or upscale restaurants, Cooks usually earn higher wages due to the complex techniques and quality standards. Casual dining and fast-food venues offer lower pay but often provide more entry-level opportunities.
Schools and hospitals like those operated by UnityPoint Health and Cedar Rapids Community School District employ Cooks for large-scale meal preparation and may offer stable benefits and salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cedar Rapids for Cooks
If you're interested in similar roles related to cooking, several careers might match your ambitions and skills.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Cedar Rapids
Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations in Iowa and Cedar Rapids to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Iowa.gov website to learn about state labor laws, wage standards, and employment protections.
- The Cedar Rapids official website provides resources related to local employment rules and business regulations.