Cook Salary in Macon, GA
Cooks in Macon, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.58 per hour, which translates to about $503.20 per week, $2,180.53 per month, and $26,166.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Macon is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market in this region for culinary professionals.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Macon, GA?
The salary of a Cook in Macon varies based on experience and employer, but here's a breakdown of typical earnings across different 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 | $2,439.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Macon Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work usually happens in the kitchen behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income is primarily derived from hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Macon, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Cooks in Macon earn slightly less at about $12.58 per hour and $26,166.40 annually, reflecting regional wage differences and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Macon for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, salary rates for Cooks vary as follows:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- North Macon: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in North Macon generally earn the highest wages nearby, followed by those in Downtown Macon.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Macon?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Macon:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more years of experience or specific culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or specialty dining venues can lead to better pay compared to fast food or casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Having professional culinary education or certifications often increases salary potential.
- Shift and Working Hours: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes offer premium pay rates.
- Local Economic Factors: The regional economy and cost of living in Macon influence overall wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Macon
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Macon involves several steps to improve employability and salary prospects.
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Central Georgia Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Helms College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on training and essential culinary skills for aspiring Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of safe food handling, often a prerequisite for employment.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: Entry-level certifications like Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation highlight proficiency and professionalism.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working entry-level positions in kitchens helps develop skills and can lead to advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Macon
Some well-known employers actively seeking Cooks in Macon include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Macon Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a range of food service establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Usually offer moderate wages but provide training and opportunities for quick entry into the workforce.
- Casual Dining: These venues may pay more and offer diverse culinary experiences.
- Fine Dining: Typically offer the highest pay for Cooks but may require advanced skills and experience.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments sometimes provide stable employment and additional benefits.
The type of establishment has a notable impact on salary, with specialty and fine dining venues generally offering greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Macon for Cooks
If you're exploring career options similar to Cook, consider these related hospitality roles:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef, which build upon culinary skills and offer various career advancement possibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Macon
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work and earnings.
- You can find detailed employment standards and labor information on the Federal Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific details about employment laws in Georgia, visit the Georgia Department of Labor website.