Cook Salary in Racine, WI
Cooks in Racine, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.59 per hour, which translates to about $703.60 per week, $3,048.93 per month, and $36,587.20 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Racine is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive employment outlook for those pursuing this position.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Racine, WI?
The salary of a Cook in Racine varies based on factors like experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.21 | $648.40 | $2,793.73 | $33,521.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.59 | $703.60 | $3,048.93 | $36,587.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.94 | $837.60 | $3,625.20 | $43,555.20 |
Do Cooks in Racine Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Racine, WI vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.12 per hour, which equates to approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Racine earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $17.59 and an annual salary of $36,587.20.
This difference reflects regional wage variations and local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Racine for Cooks
Nearby locations offer higher pay rates for Cooks:
- Waterford: $35.88 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $34.43 per hour
Cooks commuting to Waterford or Mount Pleasant can expect significantly higher wages compared to Racine.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Racine?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Racine:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens often offers better pay than fast food or casual dining places.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or cooking techniques can improve earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or holiday work may come with additional compensation.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certificates can help increase salary prospects.
How To Become a Cook in Racine
Becoming a Cook in Racine involves several key steps:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Gateway Technical College offer hands-on experience with over 400 hours of culinary practice, preparing students for roles such as Line Cook or Sous Chef in well-equipped kitchens.
- Specialize with Certificates: Consider programs such as the Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate at Gateway Technical College to build specific skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of vital food safety practices and are often required.
- Build Practical Experience: Many Cooks begin in entry-level kitchen positions to develop skills and gain valuable work experience.
- Advance with Professional Certification: Credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation support career growth and credibility.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Racine
Several well-known employers actively hire Cooks in Racine, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Denny's
- IHOP
Establishments That Cooks in Racine Work At
Cooks in Racine can find employment in a variety of establishments, each impacting salary potential differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady work but slightly lower pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have more predictable schedules with moderate wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: Usually provide higher salaries due to the skill level required.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as schools or hospitals, offering stable employment with benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Cook’s earning potential along with the work environment and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Racine for Cooks
If you are considering related career paths to Cook, here are some similar hospitality roles in the area:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, positions that share culinary skills and responsibilities with varying degrees of leadership and specialization.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Racine
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Cooks working in Racine to protect their rights and comply with obligations.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be accessed via the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor information is available through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, including wage rules and employment standards.
- Local resources and labor information for Racine residents can be found at the Official City of Racine website.