Cook Salary in Provo, UT
Cooks in Provo, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $15.14 per hour, which translates to about $605.60 per week, $2,624.27 per month, and $31,491.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks is experiencing positive growth at around 5% annually, indicating a steadily increasing demand for culinary professionals in Provo and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Provo, UT?
The salary for a Cook in Provo varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer type. Below is an overview of typical pay rates across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.30 | $332.00 | $1,436.00 | $17,264.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.14 | $605.60 | $2,624.27 | $31,491.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.60 | $1,104.00 | $4,784.00 | $57,408.00 |
Do Cooks in Provo, UT Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than customer-facing. Their compensation is mostly based on hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Provo, UT vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Cooks is around $15.90 per hour, which equates to approximately $33,072 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Cooks in Provo earn slightly less at $15.14 per hour and $31,491.20 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors such as cost of living and employer demographics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Provo, UT for Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Cooks include:
- Sundance Mountain Resort: $21.00 per hour
- Marriott International: $19.00 per hour
Jobs at these locations can offer significantly higher wages, reflecting the prestige or specialized demands of the establishment.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Provo, UT?
Several factors can impact how much a Cook earns in Provo:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Cooks with refined techniques often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or resorts usually offers better salaries than casual eateries or fast food outlets.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge of specific cuisines or kitchen equipment can boost salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Cooks working nights, weekends, or holidays may earn shift differentials that increase their overall earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: The demand for culinary workers in Provo and regional cost of living influence wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Provo, UT
Starting a career as a Cook in Provo is achievable through several pathways:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as those at the Culinary Arts Institute at Utah Valley University provide Associate and Bachelor degrees emphasizing hands-on cooking training.
- Comprehensive Culinary Training: The Provo College Culinary Program equips students with practical kitchen skills and industry knowledge for diverse culinary roles.
- Certification: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety and is frequently required.
- Entry-Level Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification by the American Culinary Federation provides a credential for fundamental culinary skills, enhancing employability.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Cooks begin as kitchen assistants or prep cooks, gaining valuable experience to progress.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Provo, UT
Provo’s culinary industry includes prominent employers seeking skilled Cooks:
- Marriott International
- Sundance Mountain Resort
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Cooks in Provo, UT Work At
Cooks in Provo typically work in different types of food service venues:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: These offer a steady pace and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically involve faster workflows with potentially lower wages but higher turnover.
- Hotels and Resorts: Places like Sundance Mountain Resort offer higher salaries and possible benefits.
- Large Chain Restaurants: Such as The Cheesecake Factory, providing structured pay scales and advancement opportunities.
The nature of the establishment influences pay, benefits, and work environment for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Provo, UT for Cooks
If you’re interested in exploring other roles related to cooking, consider these similar careers that share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef—each offering paths for career growth and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Provo, UT
Cooks should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace standards.
- The State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services website offers employment resources and labor law guidance specific to Utah.
- For more state-specific information, check the official Utah government website, which provides resources on labor laws and taxation.