Cook Salary in Kailua, HI
Cooks in Kailua, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.02 per hour, which translates to about $760.80 per week, $3,296.80 per month, and $39,561.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Kailua is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Kailua, HI?
The salary of a Cook in Kailua can vary based on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general overview of pay levels by experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.02 | $760.80 | $3,296.80 | $39,561.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.55 | $902.00 | $3,891.33 | $46,904.00 |
Do Cooks in Kailua Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work mainly involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings mainly come from their wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Kailua vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Cooks in Kailua earn significantly more, with about $19.02 per hour and $39,561.60 annually.
This premium is influenced by the higher cost of living in Hawaii and the demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kailua for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks, including:
- Round Table Pizza: $25 per hour
- Maui Tacos: $21 per hour
Cooks employed at Round Table Pizza near Kailua can expect higher hourly pay compared to other local employers, making it a lucrative option for culinary professionals in the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Kailua?
Several key factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Kailua:
- Experience and proficiency: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of establishment: Working in higher-end restaurants or resort hotels usually offers better pay than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Specialized skills: Knowledge of specific cuisines or cooking techniques can increase earning potential.
- Shift schedules: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differential pay.
- Certification and education: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or culinary education credentials can positively influence salary.
How To Become a Cook in Kailua
Becoming a Cook in Kailua involves several important steps to build skills and credentials:
- Gain culinary training: Programs like the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive practical and theoretical culinary education.
- Enhance skills: Attend workshops and seminars from organizations such as the Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation to improve cooking techniques.
- Obtain certifications: Key certifications include the ServSafe Certification for food safety and the mandatory Hawaii Food Handler Certification for all food service workers.
- Acquire experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to gain hands-on experience and work your way up.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Kailua
Some of the leading employers recruiting Cooks in Kailua include:
- Round Table Pizza
- Maui Tacos
- California Pizza Kitchen
Establishments That Cooks in Kailua Work At
Cooks in Kailua typically find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual restaurants: Often offer steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast casual venues: Provide fast-paced environments with potential for tips and sometimes higher hourly rates.
- Hotels and resorts: Generally pay higher wages due to upscale clientele and complex menu offerings.
- Catering and banquet services: Pay can fluctuate seasonally but may offer lucrative opportunities during peak events.
The type of establishment strongly influences a Cook's overall compensation and career progression.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kailua for Cooks
Individuals interested in Cook careers may also consider related positions in hospitality with similar skills and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Kailua
Cooks in Kailua should be familiar with both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- Federal labor regulations and worker rights can be found at the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations specific to Hawaii are detailed on the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.