Cook Salary in Cicero, IL
Cooks in Cicero, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.49 per hour, translating to around $619.60 per week, $2,684.93 per month, and $32,219.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Cicero is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the foodservice sector annually.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Cicero, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Cicero varies based on experience and skills. The following table outlines expected earnings by different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Cooks in Cicero Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their compensation typically comes from their wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Cicero vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, amounting to around $30,160 per year.
In Cicero, IL, Cooks earn slightly more on average, with an hourly wage of $15.49 and annual earnings near $32,219.20. This suggests a competitive local market for Cook positions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cicero for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, salary levels for Cooks vary:
- Downtown Cicero: $16.50 per hour
- West Cicero: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in West Cicero can expect the highest pay among nearby neighborhoods, reflecting perhaps more upscale dining or demand for skilled culinary labor.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Cicero?
Experience and Skillset: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills or certifications usually command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working at high-end restaurants, hotels, or specialty food venues often yields better pay than fast food or casual dining.
Shift Timings and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials that increase overall pay.
Education and Certifications: Completion of culinary programs and food safety certifications typically enhance earning potential.
Local Demand and Competition: Cicero’s growing foodservice industry contributes to salary competitiveness, especially in areas with numerous eateries.
How To Become a Cook in Cicero
To pursue a career as a Cook in Cicero, consider the following pathways:
- Enroll in culinary programs, such as the Culinary Arts Program at Triton College, offering hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge.
- Consider hospitality management education like the Hospitality Management Program at Morton College to gain broader industry understanding.
- Obtain essential food safety credentials including ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification, crucial for compliance and safety standards.
- Gain practical experience through kitchen assistant roles or apprenticeships to build proficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Cicero
Several well-known restaurant chains and foodservice companies actively hire Cooks in Cicero, IL:
- Portillo's
- IHOP
- Golden Corral
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
Establishments That Cooks in Cicero Work At
Cooks in Cicero typically find work in a variety of foodservice settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering stable employment with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often have higher throughput and may pay slightly more based on demand.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These establishments usually offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require higher skill levels and therefore may offer better compensation.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary, with more upscale venues often providing greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cicero for Cooks
If you are considering related career options, the culinary and hospitality field offers several alternatives similar to Cook roles.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, each offering career advancement and diverse salary scales within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Cicero
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Cooks working in Cicero to ensure legal compliance and fair employment conditions.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific information on employment, labor rights, and benefits is available via the Illinois Department of Employment Security.