Cook Salary in Norman, OK
Cooks in Norman, OK, in 2026, 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 Norman is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Norman, OK?
The salary of a Cook in Norman varies depending on experience and employer. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Norman Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips directly, as their work happens behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is typically based on wages or salary without tip income.
Cook Salary in Norman vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which translates to approximately $37,440.00 per year.
In Norman, Cooks earn a similar average hourly wage of $18.00 and annual salary matching the national average, reflecting a consistent pay scale in this occupation locally.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Cooks
The following nearby areas offer higher salaries for Cooks:
- Downtown Norman: $19.00 per hour
- University Area: $20.00 per hour
For Cooks willing to commute or work in these areas, there are opportunities for slightly increased earnings compared to the overall Norman average.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Norman?
Several factors impact a Cook's salary in Norman:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized skills may command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or specialty venues typically offers better pay than casual or fast-food places.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety knowledge can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evenings, weekends, or overtime might result in higher pay through shift differentials or additional hours.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic conditions and competitive local markets influence wages.
How To Become a Cook in Norman
To pursue a career as a Cook in Norman, consider the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Moore Norman Technology Center Culinary Arts Program which offers comprehensive hands-on training in modern kitchens.
- Study Hospitality Management: The University of Oklahoma Hospitality Management Program provides valuable education in culinary arts and restaurant operations.
- Earn Certifications: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate food safety knowledge and the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to validate culinary skills.
- Obtain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or internships can provide real-world experience necessary to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Norman
Norman features several notable employers seeking skilled Cooks, including:
- Crab & Catfish - Seafood & Social
- Velvet Taco
- Levy Sector
Establishments That Cooks in Norman Work At
Cooks typically work in a variety of establishments in Norman such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer a relaxed atmosphere and moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often feature faster work pace with somewhat lower wages but potential for steady hours.
- Seafood and Specialty Restaurants: These establishments might offer higher salaries due to culinary skill demands.
- Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals or schools employ Cooks often with consistent pay but less variability.
The type of establishment directly influences the salary due to differences in clientele, cuisine, and business size.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman for Cooks
If you are interested in roles closely related to Cook, you may explore these similar career paths:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Banquet Chef roles, each requiring culinary expertise with distinct responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Norman
Cooks working in Norman should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper benefits.
- Oklahoma's official government website provides comprehensive state labor laws and regulations, accessible at https://www.ok.gov.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers federal labor law resources and workplace standards at https://www.dol.gov.