Cook Salary in Killeen, TX
Cooks in Killeen, TX, 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 Killeen is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market outlook for those pursuing careers in the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Killeen can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Killeen Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes and not customer-facing. Their earnings mostly come from their base salary or hourly wage, without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, equating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Killeen earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors specific to Texas and the Killeen area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Cooks
Within the Killeen area, pay rates for Cooks can vary by neighborhood:
- Downtown Killeen: $15.50 per hour
- West Killeen: $17.60 per hour
Cooks in West Killeen benefit from higher hourly wages compared to Downtown, reflecting differing market demands and establishment types.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Killeen?
Several factors influence the salary of a Cook in Killeen, TX:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services usually results in better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications such as ServSafe may improve employability and salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might include shift differentials increasing compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: The regional market dynamics in Killeen and surrounding areas play a significant role.
How To Become a Cook in Killeen
Starting a career as a Cook in Killeen involves several important steps:
- Acquire Culinary Education: Institutions like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Austin offer comprehensive culinary arts programs including diplomas and associate degrees focusing on classical and modern techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required for Cooks in Texas, ensuring knowledge of essential food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or apprenticeships provide hands-on skills valuable for career progression.
- Develop Skills: Building expertise in kitchen operations, food preparation, and teamwork enhances job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Killeen
Some of the prominent employers in Killeen where Cooks seek opportunities include:
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Denny's
Establishments That Cooks in Killeen Work At
Cooks in Killeen commonly work in a variety of food service environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide steady work with competitive wages but often less than fine dining.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically pay moderate wages and involve fast-paced kitchen environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Cooks here often receive higher pay due to the upscale clientele and variety of menu offerings.
- Catering Services and Banquet Halls: These provide opportunities for event-based work that can influence salary based on event frequency and complexity.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale and specialized kitchens tending to offer higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to cooking, here are some roles to consider for potential growth or diversification:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, each requiring different levels of responsibility and culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Killeen
Cooks in Killeen should be familiar with both Texas state and federal labor laws that govern working conditions, wages, and employee rights.
- Visit the Texas government website to understand state-specific labor regulations and employment standards.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's website provides comprehensive resources on wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and more.