Cook Salary in Pittsburgh, PA
Cooks in Pittsburgh, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.05 per hour, which translates to about $682.00 per week, $2,955.33 per month, and $35,464.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Pittsburgh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the culinary field within the city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Pittsburgh, PA?
The salary of a Cook in Pittsburgh varies depending on experience and expertise, with earnings increasing as skills develop.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.42 | $496.80 | $2,145.20 | $25,833.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.05 | $682.00 | $2,955.33 | $35,464.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.40 | $936.00 | $4,056.00 | $48,672.00 |
Do Cooks in Pittsburgh Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work focuses on food preparation and cooking behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are based on wage or salary instead.
Cook Salary in Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn around $16.05 per hour, which amounts to a yearly salary of approximately $33,384.00.
Cooks in Pittsburgh earn slightly more than the national average, with a rate of $17.05 per hour and an annual salary of $35,464.00. This reflects the city’s culinary market and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pittsburgh for Cooks
Nearby Pittsburgh, wages for Cooks vary by neighborhood:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- Shadyside: $17.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Pittsburgh generally earn a bit more compared to Shadyside, reflecting differences in local demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Pittsburgh?
Several key factors affect what Cooks earn in Pittsburgh:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Cooks command higher pay, especially those skilled in diverse cuisines or advanced cooking techniques.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally leads to increased earning potential compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of particular regional cuisines, dietary restrictions, or kitchen management can influence salary.
- Hours and Shifts: Cooks working evenings, weekends, or holidays might receive shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Demand: Pittsburgh’s growing culinary scene drives demand, impacting wages positively.
How To Become a Cook in Pittsburgh
Beginners and career changers can follow these steps to enter the Cook profession in Pittsburgh:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Bidwell Training Center Culinary Arts Program and the Pittsburgh Culinary Initiative Next Generation Apprenticeship offer hands-on culinary training and mentorship.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Consider getting certified with the ServSafe Food Handler Certification for entry-level roles or the ServSafe Food Manager Certification if aiming for supervisory responsibilities.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level kitchen jobs help build valuable real-world cooking skills.
- Network with Local Food Industry Professionals: Engaging with culinary communities can provide job leads and professional growth opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Pittsburgh
The following employers are known for hiring Cooks in Pittsburgh:
- UPMC
- Mis en Place
- First Watch
Establishments That Cooks in Pittsburgh Work At
Cooks in Pittsburgh work in a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining: Provides consistent work with moderate wages reflecting customer volume and menu complexity.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often employ Cooks for quick food preparation, typically offering competitive but lower wages than full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay higher salaries due to volume and diversity of kitchen operations.
- Catering Services: Work can vary, but specialized cooking skills can increase earning potential.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary with upscale or high-volume kitchens usually offering the best pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pittsburgh for Cooks
Cooks interested in exploring similar roles can consider these related hospitality jobs:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which share cooking responsibilities but vary in skill level and management duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Pittsburgh
Cooks should stay informed on labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their profession in Pennsylvania.
- Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry website offers comprehensive resources about wage laws, worker rights, and employment standards.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website provides guidance on federal tax obligations, reporting requirements, and deductions.