Cook Salary in Kenosha, WI
Cooks in Kenosha, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.37 per hour, which translates to about $694.80 per week, $3,010.80 per month, and $36,129.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Kenosha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Kenosha, WI?
The salary of a Cook in Kenosha varies depending on experience level and employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages in the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,732.80 | $32,793.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.37 | $694.80 | $3,010.80 | $36,129.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.05 | $762.00 | $3,296.40 | $39,624.00 |
Do Cooks in Kenosha Earn Tips?
Cooks usually do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing meals rather than interacting directly with customers. Their income generally comes from their hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Kenosha vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $19.50 per hour, totaling about $40,560 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Kenosha earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $17.37 and an annual salary of approximately $36,129.60. This difference can be influenced by local living costs and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kenosha for Cooks
Exploring nearby locations, salary variations for Cooks include:
- Downtown Kenosha: $15.52 per hour
- Hillcrest: $17.42 per hour
Hillcrest offers higher hourly pay compared to Downtown Kenosha, which might be an attractive factor for job seekers considering location.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Kenosha?
Several factors determine how much a Cook can earn in Kenosha:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with culinary training or specialized skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays more than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts might include shift differentials increasing total pay.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as food safety can improve job prospects and salary.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Kenosha’s economic factors can impact salary ranges compared to larger cities.
How To Become a Cook in Kenosha
If you are interested in becoming a Cook in Kenosha, here are some steps to get started:
- Complete Culinary Education: Gateway Technical College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program in Kenosha, providing hands-on training and education for aspiring Cooks and Chefs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required for food handlers in Wisconsin.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions, internships, or apprenticeships to build skills.
- Develop Culinary Skills: Learn various cooking techniques and kitchen management to enhance your value as a Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Kenosha
Some of the notable employers in Kenosha looking for skilled Cooks include:
- Chili's
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Cooks in Kenosha Work At
Cooks in Kenosha work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours and moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Often provide flexible work hours but typically lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end establishments may pay more and offer benefits.
- Catering Companies and Banquets: Pay can be variable depending on event size and frequency.
The type of establishment greatly affects pay, work conditions, and job stability for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kenosha for Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to being a Cook, you might consider exploring similar positions.
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, which require similar skills and may offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Kenosha
Cooks should be aware of both federal and state labor laws to understand their rights, pay, and tax obligations.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- For specific Wisconsin state labor laws and employment resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.