Cook Salary in Greensboro, NC
Cooks in Greensboro, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.08 per hour, with an estimated $563.20 per week, $2,440.53 per month, and $29,286.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Greensboro is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising job market with expanding opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Greensboro, NC?
The salary of a Cook in Greensboro varies by experience level and type of establishment. Below is an overview of typical earnings for Cooks based on their career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.64 | $425.60 | $1,844.27 | $22,107.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.08 | $563.20 | $2,440.53 | $29,286.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.64 | $745.60 | $3,230.93 | $38,771.20 |
Do Cooks in Greensboro Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their earnings mostly come from their hourly wages or salary rather than customer gratuities.
Cook Salary in Greensboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.08 per hour, which translates to about $29,286.40 annually.
In comparison, Cooks in Greensboro earn very close to the national average, reflecting typical wage standards for this position across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greensboro for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Friendly Center: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in Friendly Center can expect higher earnings compared to Downtown Greensboro, making these areas attractive for those seeking better pay.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Greensboro?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Greensboro:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more experience or specialized culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or large-scale catering services often pays more than fast food or casual dining roles.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education and certifications such as SERVSafe can improve job prospects and salary.
- Shift Timing: Night and weekend shifts may offer higher pay through shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Greensboro’s market demand and cost of living also affect salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Greensboro
If you want to pursue a career as a Cook in Greensboro, consider these steps to build your qualifications and skills:
- Complete practical training: Enroll in courses such as the Cooking/SERVSafe Prep program offered by Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC), which covers basic cooking techniques and SERVSafe skills.
- Take specialized classes: GTCC also offers Cookie Decorating classes focusing on royal icing techniques, providing hands-on culinary experience.
- Obtain certifications: The SERVSafe Certification is essential for food safety and helps demonstrate compliance with health regulations.
- Gain work experience: Start in entry-level roles like prep cook or kitchen assistant to develop your culinary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Greensboro
Several prominent employers in Greensboro regularly hire Cooks, including:
- McDonald's
- Cone Health
- Compass Group
Establishments That Cooks in Greensboro Work At
Cooks in Greensboro work across diverse establishment types, influencing their pay and work environment:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically entry-level positions with lower salaries but opportunities for quick hiring.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: Moderate pay with steady hours and some chances to advance.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher wages due to advanced skills and culinary expertise required.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide consistent work and sometimes better benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Cook’s earning potential and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greensboro for Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to cooking in Greensboro, consider these similar roles:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Pastry Cook, each offering its own pathways and salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Greensboro
Cooks should understand the labor laws and tax requirements relevant to working in Greensboro, NC. Helpful resources include:
- U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov): Federal laws governing wages, hours, and workplace safety.
- North Carolina Official Government Site (nc.gov): State-specific labor laws, minimum wage, and employment services.