Cook Salary in Knoxville, TN
Cooks in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $16.03 per hour, which translates to about $641.20 per week, $2,778.53 per month, and $33,342.40 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook in the hospitality and food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Cook in Knoxville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.87 | $514.80 | $2,228.00 | $26,736.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,778.53 | $33,342.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.96 | $798.40 | $3,445.87 | $41,524.80 |
Do Cooks in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily focused in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come mainly from their salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.03 per hour, which equates to approximately $33,342.40 per year.
The average salary for Cooks in Knoxville matches the national average at about $16.03 per hour and $33,342.40 annually, indicating that pay in Knoxville is competitive with the broader job market nationwide.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Cooks
Nearby areas in Knoxville pay slightly more for Cooks, offering opportunities for higher earnings:
- Downtown Knoxville: $17.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $18.00 per hour
Cooks working in West Knoxville may find better pay compared to Downtown Knoxville, but both areas offer higher wages than the average in Knoxville itself.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several factors contribute to the variation in a Cook’s salary in Knoxville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants usually offers better pay than fast food or casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing culinary certifications can enhance employment opportunities and salary potential.
- Shift Work and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might have differential pay which can increase earnings.
- Location: Wages may be higher in certain parts of Knoxville or nearby areas with more affluent clientele or larger food service establishments.
How To Become a Cook in Knoxville
To become a Cook in Knoxville, individuals can follow several important steps to build their career:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the UT Culinary Certificate Program, an eight-week intensive course offered by the University of Tennessee and recognized by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, provide foundational knowledge and skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is commonly required for Cooks in Tennessee and ensures knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps build hands-on skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Knoxville
Several well-known employers in Knoxville regularly hire Cooks, including:
- Crowne Plaza Hotel
- The Arbor Company
- HHS
Establishments That Cooks in Knoxville Work At
Cooks in Knoxville typically find employment across diverse food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer more flexible hours but usually lower pay compared to casual or fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments often provide higher salaries and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Catering and Event Services: Can pay competitively depending on the event size and complexity of the menu.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Cook’s salary, with upscale or specialty venues generally offering the most lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Cooks
If you are considering related career paths to that of a Cook, here are a few similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, each requiring culinary skills and offering varying levels of salary and responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Knoxville
Cooks should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their work environment:
- Details about Tennessee state labor laws and employment standards can be found on the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.