Cook Salary in Lawton, OK
Cooks in Lawton, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $13.55 per hour, which translates to about $542.00 per week, $2,348.67 per month, and $28,184.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Lawton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job seekers in the culinary field within this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Cook in Lawton 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) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Lawton Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen and they do not interact directly with customers. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Lawton vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Lawton earn slightly less at about $13.55 per hour and $28,184 annually. This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Cooks
When exploring salaries in nearby areas of Lawton, there is some variation in pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West Lawton: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in West Lawton can expect higher pay compared to other nearby locations, reflecting different market demands and establishment types.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Lawton?
Several important factors affect a Cook’s earnings in Lawton:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specialized skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Restaurants with higher-end dining or specialized cuisine may pay more than fast food or casual dining places.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might lead to shift differentials and increased pay.
- Certifications and Training: Completing culinary programs or food safety certifications can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Economic Factors: Economic conditions and cost of living in Lawton influence general wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Lawton
To establish a career as a Cook in Lawton, here are some steps to consider:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Hospitality Assistant and Culinary Coordinator offered at Great Plains Technology Center provide key culinary skills and knowledge. These programs vary in tuition but offer valuable hands-on training.
- Gain Food Safety Certifications: Achieving the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures an understanding of critical food safety practices that employers require.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The ProStart National Certificate of Achievement is a recognized credential demonstrating proficiency in culinary arts and restaurant management.
- Obtain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions such as prep cook to build skills and progress.
- Network Locally: Engage with culinary professionals and explore job openings within Lawton’s foodservice industry.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Lawton
Some of the prominent employers looking for Cooks in Lawton include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Lawton Work At
Cooks may find employment across a range of foodservice establishments in Lawton:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically offer entry-level roles with moderate pay but regular hours.
- Casual Dining: These places might provide slightly better pay and tips compared to fast food.
- Family Style and Diner Establishments: Often employ Cooks for all meal shifts and may offer stable work schedules.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Sometimes offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary levels due to differences in clientele, cuisine complexity, and business scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Cooks
Those interested in roles similar to Cook positions might consider these related careers:
These include roles like Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, involving similar culinary skills and varying salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Lawton
Cooks in Lawton should be aware of federal and Oklahoma state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor regulations and worker protections.
- For Oklahoma-specific labor laws and resources, consult the official Oklahoma government website.