Cook Salary in El Monte, CA
Cooks in El Monte, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.00 per hour, which translates to about $800.00 per week, $3,466.67 per month, and $41,600.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in El Monte is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities within the culinary field in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in El Monte, CA?
The salary of a Cook in El Monte varies based on experience, skills, and type of dining establishment. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience levels.
| 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) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Cooks in El Monte Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their income is mostly derived from their hourly wages or salary rather than tips.
Cook Salary in El Monte vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $37,440.00 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in El Monte earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $20.00 and an annual salary of $41,600.00. This difference may reflect local living costs and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Monte for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cook positions:
- Downtown El Monte: $21.00 per hour
- North El Monte: $22.00 per hour
Working in North El Monte presents opportunities to earn higher wages compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in El Monte?
Several factors can impact how much a Cook earns in El Monte:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks with advanced cooking techniques often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels tend to earn more than those in fast-food or casual dining.
- Shift Timings: Evening or weekend shifts may include differential pay increasing overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or completing food safety courses can enhance salary potential.
- Geographic Location: Areas with higher demand or cost of living typically offer better salaries.
How To Become a Cook in El Monte
To pursue a career as a Cook in El Monte, consider these steps:
- Participate in Culinary Education: Programs like the Arroyo High School Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills and industry certification, which can help secure employment.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is required in California to ensure safe food handling practices and is often a job prerequisite.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in kitchens help build cooking skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic and Teamwork: Success as a Cook requires reliability and the ability to work closely with other kitchen staff.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in El Monte
The following employers in El Monte are known for hiring qualified Cooks:
- El Pollo Loco
- Ramona Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
- Wingstop
Establishments That Cooks in El Monte Work At
Cooks in El Monte are typically employed in a variety of foodservice establishments, including:
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: These offer steady hours, often with moderate wages and flexible scheduling.
- Casual Dining: Opportunities here may come with slightly higher pay and a broader menu requiring diverse cooking skills.
- Healthcare Facilities and Institutions: Cooks here prepare meals in large quantities, usually with consistent schedules and benefits.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments might offer higher wages reflecting their clientele and quality standards.
The type of establishment impacts not only wages but also work environment, hours, and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Monte for Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to cooking, consider these similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook, roles that share similar skills and kitchen environments with the Cook position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in El Monte
Cooks working in El Monte should be familiar with federal and state labor laws to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific workplace laws and regulations, including wage laws, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.