Cook Salary in Overland Park, KS
Cooks in Overland Park, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $16.45 per hour, which translates to about $658.00 per week, $2,851.33 per month, and $34,216.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Overland Park is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and development in the culinary field within this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Overland Park, KS?
The salary of a Cook in Overland Park can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.95 | $518.00 | $2,241.33 | $26,896.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.45 | $658.00 | $2,851.33 | $34,216.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,619.20 | $43,382.40 |
Do Cooks in Overland Park Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically done behind the scenes, preparing food rather than interacting with customers. Their earnings mainly come from their wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Overland Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.45 per hour, translating to about $34,216 per year.
The salaries in Overland Park align closely with the national average, indicating a competitive market that reflects the standard pay rate for this role across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Overland Park for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Cooks:
- Prairie Village: $17.42 per hour
- Leawood: $17.42 per hour
These slightly elevated wages may reflect the economic conditions or demand in these surrounding communities.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Overland Park?
Several factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Overland Park:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks typically command higher wages owing to their improved efficiency and skill level.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants generally pay better than fast-food or casual dining setups.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evenings, weekends, or overtime can increase earnings due to differential pay rates.
- Certifications and Training: Completing programs like ServSafe Food Handler Certification or culinary courses may boost salary potential.
- Local Economic Factors: Cost of living and demand in Overland Park also play a role in wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Overland Park
Becoming a Cook in Overland Park involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provide essential hands-on experience and culinary knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are crucial for ensuring safe food preparation and compliance with governing regulations.
- Consider Professional Certification: Achieving credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance your profile and job prospects.
- Gain Work Experience: Seek entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships to develop practical skills and kitchen familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Overland Park
Several well-known local establishments actively hire Cooks, including:
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- Johnny's Tavern
- Jack Stack Barbecue
Establishments That Cooks in Overland Park Work At
Cooks typically work at a range of establishment types, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours but moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: Wages may be lower but hours are consistent and training is often provided.
- Fine Dining Venues: Usually offer higher pay reflecting the sophisticated culinary skills required.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: Pay can vary widely but may offer more opportunities for advancement and specialized cooking experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect a Cook's salary and overall career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Overland Park for Cooks
If you’re interested in related career paths to being a Cook, consider these roles that share culinary and hospitality skills:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, all offering different responsibilities and salary potentials within the kitchen hierarchy.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Overland Park
Cooks in Overland Park should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and guidelines.
- Consult the State of Kansas official website for state-specific labor laws and resources.
- For local regulations, check the Overland Park city website.