Cook Salary in Spokane, WA
Cooks in Spokane, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.30 per hour, which translates to about $772.00 per week, $3,345.33 per month, and $40,144.00 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Spokane is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area and good career prospects for those entering the field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of a Cook in Spokane varies with experience and proficiency. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.66 | $666.40 | $2,881.87 | $34,582.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.30 | $772.00 | $3,311.47 | $40,144.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.04 | $1,041.60 | $4,505.60 | $54,163.20 |
Do Cooks in Spokane Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and does not involve direct customer service. Their compensation mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.08 per hour, which amounts to about $33,446.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Spokane earn a higher hourly wage of $19.30 and an annual salary of approximately $40,144.00, reflecting favorable pay conditions possibly due to regional demand and cost of living considerations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salary opportunities for Cooks:
- Downtown Spokane: $20.50 per hour
- South Hill: $21.00 per hour
These areas provide some of the highest-paying options close to Spokane, useful for cooks willing to commute or relocate within the metro region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors can significantly impact a Cook’s salary in Spokane:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced cooks with advanced skills such as knife skills, food prep speed, and knowledge of cuisines tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often commands higher pay compared to fast casual or smaller diners.
- Certifications: Holding certifications in food safety and culinary arts can enhance pay prospects and job security.
- Shift Timings and Hours Worked: Working evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials, adding to overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: Growing demand in the Spokane area contributes to rising salary trends.
How To Become a Cook in Spokane
To pursue a career as a Cook in Spokane, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles helps build essential skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Washington State Food Worker Card is a mandatory certification for all food service workers in the state, ensuring awareness of food safety practices.
- Consider ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized program enhances credentials and improves employability.
- Continue Learning: Joining programs such as the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy can provide hands-on experience and broaden culinary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Spokane
Cooks looking for job opportunities in Spokane may consider employers like:
- Red Robin
- SSP Group
- Ethan Stowell Restaurants
- Melting Pot
Establishments That Cooks in Spokane Work At
Cooks in Spokane find work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate pay with consistent hours and customer interaction opportunities.
- Fast Casual Spots: Often busier with quicker service pace but sometimes lower pay compared to full-service venues.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically higher paying environments with structured kitchen operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining Restaurants: These may offer higher salaries but require advanced skills and experience.
The type of establishment strongly influences the pay scale, working conditions, and career growth of Cooks in Spokane.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Cooks
For those interested in related career paths, here are a few similar hospitality roles worth considering:
The roles included are Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, all sharing culinary responsibilities with varying levels of skill and leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Spokane
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations pertinent to working in Spokane and Washington State.
- Check the Washington State Department of Licensing website for state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- For national labor statistics and employment regulations, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.