Cook Salary in Jackson, MS
Cooks in Jackson, MS, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Jackson is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a stable and increasing need for skilled food preparation professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Jackson, MS?
The salary of a Cook in Jackson varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Cooks in Jackson Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work mostly takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is typically limited to their wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Jackson vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Jackson earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This difference is influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jackson for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Cooks as follows:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Fondren: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in Fondren have the opportunity to earn significantly higher wages compared to those in Downtown or Jackson proper.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Jackson?
Several factors can impact the earnings of a Cook in Jackson:
- Experience and Skills: Cooks with more experience and greater culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than roles in fast food or casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer differential pay.
- Certifications: Having food safety or culinary certifications can enhance salary potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Wages may be higher in areas with greater demand or increased living costs.
How To Become a Cook in Jackson
Starting a career as a Cook in Jackson involves several important steps:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the Hinds Community College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational skills for various food service roles.
- Advanced Education: The Mississippi University for Women Culinary Arts Institute provides a Bachelor of Science degree that combines culinary skills with business management knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable for understanding safe food practices.
- Professional Certification: Earning the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can demonstrate validated culinary skills recognized nationally.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Jackson
Several well-known employers frequently seek skilled Cooks in Jackson, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Jackson Work At
Cooks in Jackson find employment across diverse establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often with moderate wages and fast-paced environments.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: Can offer varied pay scales depending on the establishment's reputation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically higher pay and possible benefits.
- Catering Companies and Banquets: Might have seasonal or event-based employment.
The type of employer significantly affects salary levels and career growth potential for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jackson for Cooks
For those interested in roles similar to Cook, the hospitality industry offers a range of opportunities.
Similar roles include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Chef de Partie, which require related culinary skills and experience levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Jackson
Cooks in Jackson should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to manage employment rights and financial responsibilities effectively.
- Refer to the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor laws.
- The Mississippi Department of Employment Security website provides state-specific employment resources.
- Visit the City of Jackson official website for local labor regulations and tax information.