Cook Salary in Rio Rancho, NM
Cooks in Rio Rancho, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $16.40 per hour, which translates to about $656.00 per week, $2,842.67 per month, and $34,112.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Rio Rancho is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Rio Rancho, NM?
The salary of a Cook in Rio Rancho varies based on experience, skill level, and employer. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.40 | $656.00 | $2,842.67 | $34,112.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.95 | $1,318.00 | $5,712.33 | $68,544.00 |
Do Cooks in Rio Rancho Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not receive tips since their work typically happens behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation primarily comes through wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Rio Rancho vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of approximately $16.40 per hour, which amounts to about $34,112 per year.
Cooks in Rio Rancho earn very close to this national average, reflecting a competitive wage environment consistent with broader industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rio Rancho for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Area 1: $17.50 per hour
- Area 2: $18.50 per hour
Cooks seeking higher wages may consider employment opportunities in these nearby locations where salaries tend to be higher than in Rio Rancho.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Rio Rancho?
Several factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Rio Rancho:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Cooks typically command higher wages due to better skills and efficiency.
- Skillset: Specialized cooking skills, such as in particular cuisines or food preparation techniques, can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels often offer higher pay compared to fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with added compensation.
- Location: Employment in higher-paying areas near Rio Rancho can influence overall income.
How To Become a Cook in Rio Rancho
Starting a career as a Cook in Rio Rancho involves focused education and experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training with hands-on kitchen experience.
- Explore Additional Education: The University of New Mexico-Taos Culinary Arts Program also provides valuable curriculum focusing on culinary techniques and hospitality management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the New Mexico Food Protection Manager Certification are important to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level roles or apprenticeships help develop the skills required for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Rio Rancho
Some prominent employers seeking talented Cooks in Rio Rancho include:
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services
- Leisure Care
- The Neighborhood in Rio Rancho
- Chili's
- Denny's
Establishments That Cooks in Rio Rancho Work At
Cooks in Rio Rancho work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically provide faster-paced work environments which may influence salary with tips occasionally being available to servers but not Cooks.
- Healthcare Facilities and Senior Living: Such establishments often require specialized meal preparation and may offer competitive benefits.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: These venues may offer higher wages tied to upscale service levels.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary variation due to differences in clientele, service style, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rio Rancho for Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Cook, consider the following similar roles:
This includes roles like Head Chef, Line Cook, and Chef de Partie, which share culinary skills and present various growth opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Rio Rancho
Cooks should familiarize themselves with local labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper work environments and compliance:
- Consult the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for state labor laws and resources.
- Review food safety regulations through the New Mexico Department of Health.
- Understand federal tax requirements and employer guidelines via the Internal Revenue Service.