Cook Salary in Mesa, AZ
Cooks in Mesa, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.52 per hour, which translates to about $700.80 per week, $3,036.80 per month, and $36,441.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Mesa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Mesa, AZ?
The salary of a Cook in Mesa varies by experience and employer but here is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,541.60 | $30,499.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.52 | $700.80 | $3,036.80 | $36,441.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.53 | $981.20 | $4,246.13 | $50,002.40 |
Do Cooks in Mesa Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips, as their work is largely behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income is usually from hourly wages or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, or roughly $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Mesa make slightly more, earning around $17.52 per hour and $36,441.60 annually, which reflects Mesa's specific economic conditions and demand for cooking professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Cooks
Nearby cities with higher pay rates for Cooks include:
- Fountain Hills: $20.88 per hour
- Chandler: $19.04 per hour
These locations offer more competitive wages and could be worth considering for Cooks looking for higher-paying opportunities near Mesa.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Mesa?
Experience and Culinary Skills play a significant role; Cooks with several years of experience and proficiency in various cooking techniques earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment also matters. Working in fine dining, hotels, or specialized restaurants generally provides higher pay than fast food or casual venues.
Certifications such as food safety credentials or culinary training can improve salary prospects.
Shift Hours influence earnings; evening or overnight shifts might come with premiums.
Local Economic Factors and competition among employers in Mesa also affect salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Mesa
Starting a cooking career in Mesa involves several steps for skill-building and qualification:
- Enroll in comprehensive culinary training programs such as the Mesa Community College Culinary Arts Program or the East Valley Institute of Technology Culinary Arts, which offer hands-on experience and instruction in kitchen management.
- Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, essential for meeting food safety standards and often required by employers.
- Consider pursuing the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation to validate your culinary skills.
- Gain experience through internships, entry-level kitchen positions, or apprenticeships to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Mesa
Some of the top companies and organizations employing Cooks in Mesa include:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- First Watch
- Banner Health
- Koelsch Communities
- HMSHost
Establishments That Cooks in Mesa Work At
Cooks in Mesa find employment in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work but may offer moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Serving diverse menus, these establishments generally pay better and may offer benefits.
- Catering Services and Banquet Facilities: These often demand specialized skills, potentially increasing salary.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals and care facilities employ Cooks, often with stable schedules and consistent pay.
The type of establishment impacts pay rates, benefits, and work environment for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Cooks
For those interested in expanding their culinary careers, related roles similar to Cook include:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager positions, each involving related culinary and kitchen management skills with varying pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Mesa
Cooks in Mesa should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure compliance and fair employment conditions.
- Arizona Department of Health Services provides information on state health regulations and certifications.
- The Arizona Department of Economic Security offers resources on employment and labor support within the state.
- For federal labor laws and worker rights, visit the official U.S. government website.