Cook Salary in Springfield, MO
Cooks in Springfield, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $15.52 per hour, which translates to about $620.80 per week, $2,690.13 per month, and $32,281.60 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Springfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and a welcoming job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Springfield, MO?
The salary of a Cook in Springfield can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.52 | $620.80 | $2,690.13 | $32,281.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.73 | $1,029.20 | $4,445.87 | $53,501.60 |
Do Cooks in Springfield, MO Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily happens in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings are mostly derived from their hourly wage or salary without tip income.
Cook Salary in Springfield, MO vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.52 per hour, translating to about $32,281.60 per year.
When compared to the national average, Springfield Cooks earn approximately the same hourly wage and annual salary, indicating a competitive local market aligned with national standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield, MO for Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Cook salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Southside: $17.00 per hour
Cooks working on the Southside of Springfield typically enjoy the highest pay, with Downtown also offering competitive wages in the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Springfield, MO?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Cook in Springfield, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels often pay more compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with premium pay rates.
- Local Economic Conditions: The economic vitality of Springfield impacts wage levels for culinary workers.
How To Become a Cook in Springfield, MO
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Springfield involves several practical steps to build skills and credentials.
Formal Culinary Education: Enrolling in programs such as the Ozarks Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training for aspiring Cooks. Additionally, Missouri State University’s Hospitality Leadership Program provides relevant education in food preparation and service.
Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications like the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to meet health and safety standards.
Professional Culinary Certifications: Earning credentials such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can validate culinary competence and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Springfield, MO
Prominent employers in Springfield currently seeking skilled Cooks include:
- Bass Pro Shops
- Mercy Hospital
- CoxHealth
Establishments That Cooks in Springfield, MO Work At
Cooks in Springfield are employed in a range of establishments, each influencing salary and work experience:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer stable hours with moderate pay; good for entry-level Cooks.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide faster-paced environments and wages that may be slightly lower than sit-down restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay and benefits due to the scale and formality of the operation.
- Healthcare Facilities: Places like Mercy Hospital hire Cooks with consistent schedules and steady wages.
The diversity of establishments allows Cooks to find matches that suit their skills and compensation expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield, MO for Cooks
For those interested in careers related to being a Cook, several similar hospitality roles exist that leverage culinary skills and knowledge.
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef, roles closely related to cooking with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Springfield, MO
Cooks should be familiar with regional labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper wage practices.
- For federal labor laws and regulations visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides state-specific labor information useful for workers in Springfield.
- The City of Springfield official website offers local employment resources and regulations for area workers.