Cook Salary in Pomona, CA
Cooks in Pomona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.42 per hour, which translates to about $816.80 per week, $3,539.47 per month, and $42,473.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Pomona is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities in the culinary sector locally.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Pomona, CA?
The salary of a Cook in Pomona varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,073.60 | $36,844.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.42 | $816.80 | $3,539.47 | $42,473.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.48 | $939.20 | $4,053.87 | $48,886.40 |
Do Cooks in Pomona Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily takes place in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is mostly based on hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Pomona, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.07 per hour, which equates to roughly $33,425.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Pomona earn significantly more, with an hourly wage of $20.42 and an annual salary of $42,473.60.
This increase likely reflects the higher cost of living and local demand for skilled culinary professionals in the Pomona area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Cooks
Nearby areas often offer slightly higher wages for Cooks. For example:
- Downtown Pomona: $21.50 per hour
- North Pomona: $22.00 per hour
Cooks working in North Pomona can expect some of the highest pay near the city.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Pomona:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks may earn more working in upscale restaurants or hotels compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Holding certifications in food safety or culinary arts can enhance employability and salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might come with additional pay differentials.
- Local Market Demand: The job market demand in Pomona can change wages according to the needs of local employers.
How To Become a Cook in Pomona, CA
Becoming a Cook in Pomona can be pursued through several pathways:
- Culinary Arts Program at Mt. San Antonio College: This program offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for food service roles.
- Hospitality Management Program at Cal Poly Pomona: Provides education on hospitality operations and culinary management with practical skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers.
- Consider Culinary Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential by the American Culinary Federation validates entry-level culinary skills and improves job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Pomona, CA
Some prominent employers hiring Cooks in Pomona include:
- Marriott International
- HealthRIGHT 360
- Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc.
Establishments That Cooks in Pomona Work At
Cooks typically find employment across a range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food Chains: Often entry points into culinary careers with lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These tend to offer higher salaries and employee benefits.
- Catering Services: Involve varied work with different pay scales depending on the event size and clientele.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Cook’s salary due to differences in clientele, scale, and expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Cooks
If you're looking to explore similar roles, consider these related culinary positions:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef positions, each requiring various levels of expertise in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Pomona, CA
Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and earnings:
- Federal labor regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are available through the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local employment standards and community resources can be accessed via the City of Pomona official website.