Cook Salary in College Station, TX
Cooks in College Station, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.91 per hour, which translates to about $596.40 per week, $2,584.40 per month, and $31,012.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in College Station is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and expansion in this profession in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in College Station, TX?
The salary of a Cook in College Station varies depending on experience level, with starting pay being lower and earnings increasing as skills and expertise develop.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.22 | $448.80 | $1,941.60 | $23,299.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.91 | $596.40 | $2,584.40 | $31,012.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.81 | $792.40 | $3,419.73 | $41,203.20 |
Do Cooks in College Station Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen and they typically do not interact directly with customers. Their income is primarily from wages or salary.
Cook Salary in College Station vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn about $17.97 per hour, amounting to roughly $37,377.60 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in College Station earn $14.91 per hour and an annual salary of about $31,012.80, which is below the national average.
This difference may reflect localized cost of living and industry demand factors present in College Station.
Highest-Paying Areas Near College Station for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varying salaries for Cooks:
- Giddings: $15.54 per hour
- Brenham: $14.91 per hour
Cooks in Giddings enjoy somewhat higher pay, while those in Brenham earn about the same as in College Station.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in College Station?
Several factors affect a Cook’s earnings in College Station, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with a diverse skill set typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more compared to those in fast food or casual eateries.
- Special Culinary Skills: Mastery of specific cuisines or advanced cooking techniques can increase earning potential.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications enhance employability and may impact salary.
- Shift Timing: Extra pay may be offered for night or weekend shifts.
- Local Demand and Competition: The supply of skilled Cooks relative to demand in the area influences wages offered.
How To Become a Cook in College Station
Becoming a Cook in College Station involves a few key steps to gain relevant qualifications and experience:
- Culinary Education: Consider programs at schools like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts located in Austin, Texas, which offers comprehensive culinary degrees and certificates.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards required by employers.
- Hands-on Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles to build practical skills and advance.
- Networking and Job Search: Connect with local restaurants and hospitality groups to find job openings.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in College Station
Many notable employers in College Station are consistently looking for skilled Cooks, including:
- Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center
- Compass Group
- Pluckers
Establishments That Cooks in College Station Work At
Cooks in College Station typically find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady positions and moderate pay reflective of the establishment’s scale.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Positions here may offer lower wages but with opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Conference Centers: Often provide higher salaries and additional benefits for experienced Cooks.
- Catering and Event Companies: These may provide varying pay with possible additional temporary roles.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with higher-end venues usually offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in College Station for Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Cook, these positions might be of interest:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook, which involve similar culinary responsibilities and may offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in College Station
Cooks should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws and tax obligations to manage their work life effectively.
- Comprehensive details on Texas state labor laws and employment regulations can be found at the Texas government website.
- For information on federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.