Cook Salary in Plano, TX
Cooks in Plano, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.63 per hour, which translates to about $585.20 per week, $2,535.87 per month, and $30,430.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Plano is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and an expanding market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Plano, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Plano can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.41 | $456.40 | $1,975.60 | $23,731.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.63 | $585.20 | $2,535.87 | $30,430.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.77 | $750.80 | $3,212.53 | $38,950.40 |
Do Cooks in Plano Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation and cooking, rather than direct customer service. Their earnings typically come from their hourly wages or salary alone.
Cook Salary in Plano, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, translating to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to this national average, Cooks in Plano earn slightly lower, at about $14.63 per hour and $30,430.40 annually.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living factors and the demand in Plano's culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Plano for Cooks
When investigating nearby areas, Cook salaries show some variation:
- Downtown Plano: $16.00 per hour
- Legacy West: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working in Legacy West tend to earn a bit more compared to those in Downtown Plano, reflecting differing economic and commercial dynamics in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Plano?
Several key factors influence a Cook's salary in Plano:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens usually offers better pay than fast-food or casual dining.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may yield shift differentials or premium pay.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or Food Handler's Permit can improve employability and earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: The economic conditions of Plano and surrounding areas affect salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Plano
To start a career as a Cook in Plano, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Collin College offer comprehensive Culinary Arts programs in Plano, TX, providing essential hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge.
- Explore Nearby Educational Options: El Centro College in Dallas provides respected Culinary Arts programs that prepare students for food service roles.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: In Texas, a Food Handler's Permit is mandatory for those involved in food preparation, ensuring safety compliance.
- Gain Food Safety Knowledge: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and demonstrates a Cook’s understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
- Build Practical Experience: Seek entry-level positions to develop kitchen skills and work readiness.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Plano
Several prominent employers in Plano actively hire Cooks:
- Children's Health
- First Watch
- Bon Appétit
- Morrison Healthcare
- Thomas Cuisine
Establishments That Cooks in Plano Work At
Cooks commonly find employment in a range of establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically provide steady hours but generally offer moderate pay.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Cooks in these establishments are often paid more due to higher skill requirements and service quality.
- Hotels and Resorts: These settings may offer competitive wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Healthcare Facilities and Corporate Cafeterias: These sometimes provide stable employment and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Cook’s salary, with fine dining and hospitality venues usually offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Plano for Cooks
If you're considering careers similar to Cook, here are some related roles:
This list includes Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with Cook roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Plano
Cooks in Plano should be informed about key labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- Information on Texas labor laws, including minimum wage and worker rights, is available on the official Texas government website.
- For federal standards and employment laws, the U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources.