Cook Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Cooks in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Lees-Summit is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market trajectory in the hospitality sector in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Cook in Lees-Summit can vary by experience level and workplace, but typically ranges from entry-level to top earners as shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Cooks in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is mostly in the kitchen preparing meals rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings are primarily from their base salary or hourly wage.
Cook Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $17.50, corresponding to an annual salary of around $36,400.
Compared to the national figures, Cooks in Lees-Summit earn slightly above average, with an hourly rate of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00.
This shows that the local market in Lees-Summit offers competitive pay for Cooks relative to the broader U.S. market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Cooks
Cooks working in surrounding areas may see differences in pay:
- Downtown: $19.00 per hour
- Lakewood: $20.00 per hour
Both Downtown and Lakewood offer somewhat higher wages than Lees-Summit itself, making them attractive nearby options for Cook employment.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several factors can influence how much a Cook earns in Lees-Summit:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with diverse culinary skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels typically offer better wages than casual or fast food venues.
- Work Schedule: Working nights or weekends can sometimes include shift differentials, increasing earnings.
- Local Demand: Workforce demand and seasonality in the hospitality sector affect pay rates.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certificates or food safety certifications can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Cook in Lees-Summit
To pursue a career as a Cook in Lees-Summit, one can consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program and Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly valued and demonstrates knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Gain Foundational Skills: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation offers entry-level certification showcasing foundational culinary skills.
- Start Entry-Level Positions: Obtaining entry-level roles such as prep cook or line cook helps build practical experience.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Connecting with experienced chefs and culinary professionals accelerates learning and career progression.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Lees-Summit
Several employers actively hire Cooks in Lees-Summit, including:
- John Knox Village
- 54th Street Restaurants
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Lees-Summit Work At
Cooks in Lees-Summit find employment across a variety of dining and food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These settings offer varied menus and often provide solid wage structures.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically lower pay than sit-down restaurants, but with higher volume and opportunities for rapid advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher pay and benefits for experienced Cooks.
- Institutional Food Service: Hospitals, schools, and corporate cafeterias might offer stable work with standard salaries.
The type and prestige of the establishment have a significant impact on salary ranges for Cooks locally.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Cooks
If you are considering careers related to being a Cook in Lees-Summit, some similar roles include:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, all requiring culinary skills similar to those of a Cook but with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Lees-Summit
Cooks in Lees-Summit should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements:
- View Missouri state labor regulations on the labor.mo.gov website.
- Federal labor laws and workers' rights information can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor site.