Cook Salary in Conroe, TX
Cooks in Conroe, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $580.00 per week, $2,513.33 per month, and $30,160.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Conroe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the local culinary field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Conroe, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Conroe varies depending on their experience and skills. Below is an overview of earnings based on different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,513.33 | $30,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Conroe Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income generally comes from their regular wages.
Cook Salary in Conroe vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $15.00 per hour, which equals approximately $31,200 per year.
Comparatively, Cooks in Conroe earn slightly less at around $14.50 per hour and $30,160 annually, reflecting regional variations in cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Conroe for Cooks
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Conroe: $15.50 per hour
- The Woodlands: $16.00 per hour
Cooks in The Woodlands enjoy the highest pay among nearby locations, likely due to higher demand and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Conroe?
Experience and skill level play a major role; more skilled or specialized cooks command better pay.
The type of establishment also affects salary—fine dining venues usually pay more than casual restaurants or fast food outlets.
Certifications such as food safety or culinary training can boost earning potential and job prospects.
Work hours and shifts (e.g., evenings, weekends) might include shift differentials that increase pay.
How To Become a Cook in Conroe
Starting a career as a Cook in Conroe can be facilitated by various educational and certification pathways.
Lone Star College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program that provides practical training and foundational knowledge for aspiring Cooks.
Additionally, the Montgomery County Community College Culinary Program focuses on essential cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
Obtaining recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Texas Food Manager Certification can be essential, especially for supervisory roles.
Hands-on experience and on-the-job training remain invaluable for skill development and employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Conroe
Several popular chains and local restaurants actively hire Cooks in Conroe, including:
- Chili's
- Raising Cane's
- Waffle House
Establishments That Cooks in Conroe Work At
Cooks in Conroe find employment across a variety of settings:
- Casual dining restaurants: These often provide steady work at moderate pay.
- Fast casual and quick-service outlets: Typically offering entry-level positions with consistent hours.
- Fine dining establishments: Often pay higher wages for more specialized culinary skills.
- Hotels and catering companies: Provide opportunities with potential for advancement and benefit packages.
The type of establishment affects not only salary but also the work environment and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Conroe for Cooks
Those interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry can consider the following positions that share related skills and responsibilities:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef, roles that involve culinary preparation with varying levels of responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Conroe
Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities to safeguard their rights and manage finances properly.
- Official Texas state labor laws and worker resources can be accessed via the Texas government website.
- Federal labor regulations and worker protections are outlined on the U.S. Department of Labor's website.