Cook Salary in Tempe, AZ
Cooks in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.06 per hour, which translates to about $722.40 per week, $3,130.40 per month, and $37,564.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with opportunities for those entering or advancing in this profession.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Cook in Tempe varies based on experience and specific roles, with the following general breakdown:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.13 | $645.20 | $2,786.93 | $33,422.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.06 | $722.40 | $3,130.40 | $37,564.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.21 | $808.40 | $3,503.47 | $42,036.80 |
Do Cooks in Tempe Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mostly takes place behind the scenes, away from direct customer interaction. Their income is based primarily on their salary or hourly wages without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $16.75 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Tempe earn slightly more at $18.06 per hour and $37,564.80 annually, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Tempe: $19.50 per hour
- North Tempe: $18.75 per hour
Positions in Downtown Tempe tend to be the most lucrative, which may be due to the higher volume of restaurants and greater demand there.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors influence how much a Cook can earn in Tempe, AZ:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks who master various cuisines or kitchen stations typically earn more than beginners.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training or certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts and overtime may improve earnings.
- Local Demand: Tempe’s growing culinary scene creates competitive salaries in popular areas.
How To Become a Cook in Tempe
Starting a career as a Cook in Tempe involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College or the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The Arizona Food Handler's Card is a mandatory certification for all food service workers in Arizona to ensure knowledge of food safety.
- Consider Additional Certifications: Nationally recognized credentials like the ServSafe Certification can enhance your employment prospects by demonstrating expertise in sanitation and proper food handling.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen helper or line cook allows you to develop essential skills and prepare for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Tempe
Several notable employers in Tempe frequently seek Cooks, including:
- Aramark
- Chili's
- North Italia
- Flower Child
Establishments That Cooks in Tempe Work At
Cooks in Tempe find employment in various types of establishments that can impact their salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work hours with moderate pay rates.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Faster-paced environments with potential for slightly lower wages but quicker advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: These offer opportunities for higher salaries, especially in luxury settings.
- Institutional Settings: Such as schools, hospitals, or corporate cafeterias, often provide stable employment and benefits.
Pay rates vary with establishment status, cuisine type, and clientele, influencing earning potential for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Cooks
If you are considering similar career paths to becoming a Cook, you might explore roles like:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, which require related culinary skills with varying levels of responsibility and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Tempe
Cooks in Tempe should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure compliance and fair working conditions:
- Check the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and certifications.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Economic Security for employment and labor resources.
- Consult the City of Tempe Official Website for local regulations and community employment resources.