Cook Salary in Hillsboro, OR
Cooks in Hillsboro, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.56 per hour, which translates to about $742.40 per week, $3,217.07 per month, and $38,604.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Hillsboro is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an expanding need for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Hillsboro, OR?
The salary of a Cook in Hillsboro varies depending on experience and the type of establishment they work in. Below is a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,506.67 | $30,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.56 | $742.40 | $3,217.07 | $38,604.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.77 | $950.80 | $4,109.87 | $49,441.60 |
Do Cooks in Hillsboro Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work is usually behind the scenes and not in direct contact with guests. Their income primarily comes from their set wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Hillsboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, equating to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Hillsboro earn $18.56 per hour and approximately $38,604.80 annually, which is higher and reflects local economic conditions including the cost of living and industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hillsboro for Cooks
When considering nearby areas, Cook salaries vary as follows:
- Portland, OR: $19.76 per hour
- Salem, OR: $25.24 per hour
Cooks commuting to these regions might find higher wages, especially in Salem, which offers significantly higher pay relative to Hillsboro.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Hillsboro?
Several factors play a key role in determining the salary of a Cook in Hillsboro:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks with specialized skills or those working in high-end kitchens usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries vary greatly depending on whether the Cook works in casual dining, fast food, fine dining, or institutional settings.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant certifications like food safety can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working night shifts or weekends may come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Labor Market: The economic demand in Hillsboro and the surrounding areas also impacts salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Hillsboro
Starting a career as a Cook in Hillsboro involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience:
- High School Culinary Programs: For instance, the Century High School Culinary Arts Program offers foundational hospitality and culinary skills, which can be valuable early training.
- Food Handler's Permit: It is mandatory for all food service workers in Oregon, ensuring knowledge of safe and sanitary food handling.
- ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification demonstrates proficiency in food safety and sanitation and is highly valued by employers.
- Hands-On Experience: Many Cooks start in entry-level kitchen roles, gaining practical skills and moving up with on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Hillsboro
Some of the prominent employers actively seeking skilled Cooks in the Hillsboro area include:
- Morrison Healthcare
- Eurest
- Hillsboro School District
Establishments That Cooks in Hillsboro Work At
Cooks in Hillsboro typically find work in various types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate pay and an opportunity to gain diverse culinary experience.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often entry points with faster-paced work but usually lower pay.
- Institutional Food Services: Such as schools or healthcare facilities, which may offer stable work and benefits.
- Fine Dining: These establishments tend to offer higher salaries though often require advanced skills and experience.
The type and prestige of these establishments can significantly influence a Cook’s salary in Hillsboro.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hillsboro for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Cook, here are a few similar roles worth considering:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Banquet Chef, which require culinary skills similar to those of a Cook but may differ in specialization or work environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Hillsboro
As a Cook in Hillsboro, understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for workplace rights and financial planning.
- Visit the State of Oregon’s official website for comprehensive information on labor laws and workers’ rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor’s website offers federal regulations and employment standards applicable throughout Oregon.