Cook Salary in Joliet, IL
Cooks in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which translates to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year.
The job market for cooks in Joliet is showing positive growth at around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary professionals in various hospitality settings throughout the city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Cook in Joliet can vary depending on factors such as experience, type of establishment, and specific skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,042.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.02 | $1,400.80 | $6,054.93 | $72,665.60 |
Do Cooks in Joliet Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is focused on food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation is generally limited to hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Joliet, IL vs. National Average
Across the United States, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, equating to approximately $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Joliet earn a slightly higher wage of $17.55 per hour, which amounts to around $36,504 annually. This difference reflects regional economic conditions and demand for culinary skills.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Cooks
Nearby areas offer variations in pay rates for Cook positions:
- Downtown Joliet: $18.50 per hour
- West Joliet: $17.75 per hour
Cooks working in Downtown Joliet can expect to earn more compared to other nearby locations, making it a lucrative area for culinary employment.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Joliet?
The salary a Cook earns in Joliet can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks who master diverse techniques and cuisines generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or resorts often pay more compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Night shifts or longer hours might attract premium rates or overtime pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and demand for culinary staff in Joliet impact wages significantly.
How To Become a Cook in Joliet
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Joliet involves practical steps and education:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Joliet Junior College provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques, sanitation, nutrition, and cost control.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is a widely recognized credential that ensures knowledge of food and beverage safety standards.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles helps develop necessary skills and advances employability.
- Build a Professional Network: Connecting with local chefs and culinary professionals can open doors to job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Joliet
Several prominent employers frequently seek skilled Cooks in Joliet, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Harrah's Joliet Casino
- Hollywood Casino
Establishments That Cooks in Joliet Work At
Cooks in Joliet typically find employment across various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady employment but may have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: While fast-paced, wages can be lower, but hours plentiful.
- Hotels and Casinos: Larger venues such as Harrah's and Hollywood Casino may offer higher salaries and benefits.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Opportunities to work with diverse menus and events, sometimes offering better pay.
The establishment type significantly affects the Cook’s wage, with upscale or specialized venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Cooks
If you're exploring roles similar to Cook, consider these related positions offering overlapping skills and career paths:
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each offering unique responsibilities and salary potentials within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Joliet
Cooks should be familiar with employment regulations and tax obligations specific to Illinois and the federal government to safeguard their rights and manage finances properly.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and employment information to understand nationwide employment standards.
- For state-specific resources, visit the Illinois official government website providing important information on labor laws and worker protections.