Cook Salary in Irving, TX
Cooks in Irving, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.16 per hour, which translates to about $606.40 per week, $2,627.73 per month, and $31,532.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Irving is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary and food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Irving, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Irving varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of earnings for different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.04 | $481.60 | $2,075.47 | $24,979.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,627.73 | $31,532.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.10 | $764.00 | $3,307.33 | $39,728.00 |
Do Cooks in Irving Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes. Their earnings mainly come from their salary or hourly wages without additional tipping income.
Cook Salary in Irving vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.95 per hour, translating to about $33,176 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Irving earn slightly less at approximately $15.16 per hour and $31,532.80 per year. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand in Irving, TX.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irving for Cooks
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Cooks, including:
- Las Colinas: $17.65 per hour
- Valley Ranch: $16.50 per hour
Cooks seeking higher wages might consider employment in these neighboring communities.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Irving?
Cooking salaries in Irving are influenced by various factors including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Some shifts, such as nights or weekends, may offer differential pay.
- Geographical Location: Salaries can vary within the region based on demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Cook in Irving
Starting a career as a Cook in Irving involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider pursuing education at institutions like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts or the El Centro College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate important knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can validate foundational culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as a prep cook or line cook helps build skills and increases job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Irving
Several top employers in Irving seek skilled Cooks, including:
- Chili's
- Wingstop
- Raising Cane's
- Marriott International
- Aramark
Establishments That Cooks in Irving Work At
Cooks in Irving are typically employed across a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Typically pay on the lower end, but offer fast-paced environments with tips sometimes going to front-of-house staff instead.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher wages and benefits, especially in luxury establishments.
- Catering Services: Can provide varied experiences and compensation depending on contracts.
The type of establishment significantly affects overall compensation and growth opportunities for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irving for Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to cooking, consider exploring similar roles such as:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, which share many skills with Cooks but offer opportunities for advancement and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Irving
Cooks in Irving should be aware of both Texas and federal labor laws to ensure fair working conditions and compliance:
- Visit the Texas government website for resources on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal requirements, check the U.S. Department of Labor website to understand standards that apply nationally.