Cook Salary in Dearborn, MI
Cooks in Dearborn, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $15.92 per hour, which translates to about $636.80 per week, $2,759.47 per month, and $33,113.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Dearborn is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary services and food preparation positions in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Dearborn, MI?
The salary of a Cook in Dearborn varies depending on experience and work environment, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.11 | $524.40 | $2,269.60 | $27,148.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.92 | $636.80 | $2,759.47 | $33,113.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.33 | $773.20 | $3,330.13 | $39,041.60 |
Do Cooks in Dearborn Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is largely behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income mainly comes from their hourly wages or salary, with tips more commonly going to front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders.
Cook Salary in Dearborn vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.92 per hour, translating to about $33,113.60 per year.
In Dearborn, MI, Cooks earn roughly the same as the national average, indicating that the local pay is competitive and aligned with broader market standards for the position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dearborn for Cooks
Nearby areas in Michigan offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Allen Park: $16.82 per hour
- Farmington Hills: $16.73 per hour
These nearby communities provide opportunities for slightly higher wages compared to Dearborn, potentially attracting Cooks willing to commute for better pay.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Dearborn?
The salary for a Cook in Dearborn can be affected by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills such as line cooking or butchery generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels tends to pay better compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and formal culinary training enhance employability and salary potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Higher demand in the area and regional cost of living impact overall pay levels.
How To Become a Cook in Dearborn
There are several important steps to starting a career as a Cook in Dearborn:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Programs like Henry Ford College Culinary Arts Program or Schoolcraft College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive culinary education with both practical and theoretical instruction.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring ServSafe Certification or becoming a Certified Culinarian (CC) helps demonstrate food safety expertise and foundational culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant, prep cook, or in internships helps build essential cooking skills and industry knowledge.
- Develop Key Skills: Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are crucial competencies for success.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Dearborn
Some notable employers often hiring Cooks in Dearborn include:
- Ford's Garage
- The Henry Ford
- Marriott International
- Tim Hortons
- P.F. Chang's
Establishments That Cooks in Dearborn Work At
Cooks in Dearborn typically find work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate wages and consistent hours, these are common workplaces for Cooks to build experience.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: Often pay slightly lower wages but provide quicker-paced environments and potential for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Positions here usually come with higher wages and benefits due to the scale and prestige of these establishments.
- Catering and Banquet Services: These roles may require flexibility and offer variable pay depending on event schedules.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on a Cook’s salary, benefits, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dearborn for Cooks
If you are interested in culinary careers similar to Cooking, consider these related roles:
These positions include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie — roles closely related to the duties and skills involved in Cooking.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Dearborn
Cooks should be aware of both state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment rights and compliance.
- You can find detailed information about Michigan labor laws, wage rules, and employment standards on the official Michigan government website.
- For federal labor laws including minimum wage, overtime, and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor at dol.gov.