Cook Salary in Shreveport, LA
Cooks in Shreveport, LA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Shreveport is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in opportunities within the local culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Shreveport, LA?
The salary of a Cook in Shreveport can vary based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings at different stages of a Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Shreveport Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is generally based on hourly wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Shreveport vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Shreveport earn higher wages, at about $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually. This reflects regional factors such as living costs and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Shreveport for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Shreveport: $19.00 per hour
- South Highlands: $20.00 per hour
Working in South Highlands can provide Cooks with the highest pay compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Shreveport?
Several factors play a significant role in determining a Cook's salary in Shreveport:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with proficiency in various cooking techniques can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or hotels often results in better compensation compared to casual dining or fast food chains.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and certifications can improve job prospects and earnings.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might pay more due to demand.
- Local Demand: A growing hospitality sector in Shreveport supports higher salaries.
How To Become a Cook in Shreveport
To pursue a career as a Cook in Shreveport, one can follow these practical steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Bossier Parish Community College Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on training and theoretical knowledge crucial for cooking careers.
- Hospitality Courses: The Southern University at Shreveport Hospitality Management Program provides relevant courses and skills related to culinary arts and restaurant operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety, a must-have for many employers.
- Specialized Local Training: The Louisiana Responsible Vendor Training is required for those involved in food service that includes alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens help develop practical cooking skills and improve job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Shreveport
Shreveport has a variety of employers actively looking for skilled Cooks, including:
- Chili’s
- Sonic Drive-In
- Joe's Crab Shack
Establishments That Cooks in Shreveport Work At
Cooks find work in diverse food service settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady employment with moderate pay and tips rarely involved.
- Fast Casual Chains: Positions here may offer basic pay, but often provide opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often paying higher wages due to volume and quality expectations.
- Catering and Banquets: These can offer varied hours and competitive pay depending on the scale of events.
Each type of establishment affects salary ranges and benefits differently, with upscale venues generally offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Shreveport for Cooks
For those interested in roles similar to Cook, the hospitality industry offers several related jobs with overlapping skills and career paths.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, each carrying different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Shreveport
Cooks in Shreveport should stay informed about employment laws and tax regulations from federal to local levels.
- Federal labor standards and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment information and guidelines are available via the Louisiana Workforce Commission website.
- Local resources and regulations can be explored through the official Shreveport city website.