Cook Salary in Des-Plaines, IL
Cooks in Des-Plaines, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which amounts to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Des-Plaines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing need for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Des-Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Des-Plaines varies based on experience level and skill. Here is an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than in direct customer service.
Cook Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $17.00 per hour, or around $35,360 per year. In comparison, Cooks in Des-Plaines earn a bit more, with an hourly wage of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00.
This higher pay may reflect the area's cost of living and demand for skilled culinary workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Cooks
Nearby employers that offer higher pay for Cooks include:
- Rivers Casino: $21.00 per hour
- Big Fish Hospitality: $20.00 per hour
High-Paying Cities for Cooks
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Des-Plaines?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook makes in Des-Plaines:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced cooks with diverse culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or casinos can increase pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working night shifts or weekends may include shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications: Completion of food safety and handling certificates can positively impact salaries.
- Local Demand: Increased demand for culinary professionals in Des-Plaines boosts compensation packages.
How To Become a Cook in Des-Plaines
Becoming a Cook in Des-Plaines involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive hands-on training for aspiring cooks.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: The Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory and assures knowledge of safe food handling practices required in the state.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, starting as a prep cook or kitchen assistant helps develop necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Des-Plaines
Some of the leading employers hiring Cooks in the Des-Plaines area include:
- Rivers Casino
- Big Fish Hospitality
- Wildfire - Glenview
- Chili's - Rosemont
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse Rosemont
Establishments That Cooks in Des-Plaines Work At
Cooks typically work across a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual and family restaurants: Often provide steady hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Entry-level opportunities with potential for advancement but sometimes lower wages.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Generally offer higher wages and require more advanced skills.
- Casinos and Large Hospitality Venues: Higher paying positions reflecting the upscale nature and volume of business.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with upscale environments offering better compensation packages than fast food or casual dining.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Cooks
If you are interested in related careers, here are some roles similar to Cook you might explore:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Commis Chef roles, which involve various levels of culinary responsibility and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Des-Plaines
Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security website provides valuable information about state labor regulations and employment details.