Cook Salary in Mesquite, TX
Cooks in Mesquite, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.29 per hour, which translates to about $491.60 per week, $2,130.27 per month, and $25,563.20 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Mesquite is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook with increasing opportunities in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Mesquite, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Mesquite varies with experience and skill level. Here is an overview across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.96 | $358.40 | $1,550.13 | $18,596.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.29 | $491.60 | $2,130.27 | $25,563.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.86 | $674.40 | $2,913.07 | $34,988.80 |
Do Cooks in Mesquite, TX Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their primary work is behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mostly based on salary or hourly wages.
Cook Salary in Mesquite, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Mesquite earn less, at about $12.29 per hour and $25,563.20 per year. This difference can reflect cost of living and local market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesquite for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Cook salaries vary:
- Downtown Mesquite: $15.50 per hour
- Town East: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working closer to Town East tend to have higher pay rates compared to other surrounding locations.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Mesquite?
Several key factors influence a Cook’s salary in Mesquite, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with diverse culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers better pay than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Some shifts, like evenings or weekends, may include shift differentials.
- Local Demand: The strength of the foodservice industry in Mesquite affects salary offers.
How To Become a Cook in Mesquite, TX
Beginning a career as a Cook in Mesquite can be supported by several important steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as the El Centro College Culinary Arts Program in nearby Dallas or the Collin College Culinary Arts Program, which both provide practical and theoretical cooking education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Texas Food Manager Certification are valuable for career advancement and compliance with health regulations.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions helps build essential skills and work ethic.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Mesquite, TX
Some of the prominent local employers looking for skilled Cooks include:
- On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
- IHOP
- Ernest Health
Establishments That Cooks in Mesquite, TX Work At
Cooks in Mesquite are employed in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These places provide consistent work hours and average wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher salaries and offer benefits but may require specialized skills.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Employment here offers stability and sometimes higher pay depending on scale.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer higher wages and require more advanced culinary skills.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary ranges and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesquite, TX for Cooks
If you are interested in jobs related to being a Cook, consider exploring these similar careers that share culinary and kitchen responsibilities:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Mesquite, TX
Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights while working.
- Federal labor laws are accessible at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific information, including wage and hour regulations, visit the Texas Workforce Commission.
- Local resources and regulations can be found on the City of Mesquite official website.