Cook Salary in Upper-Darby, PA
Cooks in Upper-Darby, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $580.00 per week, $2,513.33 per month, and $30,160.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Upper-Darby is looking up with a growth rate of 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for individuals entering this profession in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Upper-Darby, PA?
The salary of a Cook in Upper-Darby varies based on experience and employer. Below is a detailed breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Upper-Darby Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is predominantly in food preparation away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings mainly come from wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Upper-Darby vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn on average about $14.50 per hour or approximately $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in Upper-Darby earn roughly the same as the national average, highlighting a competitive pay scale in this area relative to the broader job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper-Darby for Cooks
If you're willing to commute, nearby areas offer higher salaries for Cooks:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Considering opportunities in these nearby areas may provide better earning potential for Cooks.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Upper-Darby?
Several key factors impact how much a Cook can earn in Upper-Darby:
- Experience: More experienced Cooks typically command higher wages due to skill proficiency and efficiency.
- Skills: Specialized culinary techniques or knowledge of certain cuisines can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Wages may vary significantly between casual diners, fast food restaurants, upscale dining venues, and institutional kitchens.
- Shift and Hours: Hours worked, including night or weekend shifts, can influence total earnings.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications can be beneficial for salary negotiations.
How To Become a Cook in Upper-Darby
Pursuing a career as a Cook in Upper-Darby can be achieved by following several important steps:
- Educational Programs: Enrolling in culinary arts programs such as those at Walnut Hill College Culinary Arts Program or Delaware County Community College Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on training and essential knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Manager helps ensure knowledge of industry standards and increases employability.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Cooks start as kitchen assistants or apprentices to develop practical skills.
- Networking: Building connections in local restaurants and culinary communities can aid in discovering job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Upper-Darby
Some notable employers actively hiring Cooks in Upper-Darby include:
- Pica's Restaurant
- Redstone American Grill
- McDonald's
Establishments That Cooks in Upper-Darby Work At
Cooks in Upper-Darby find employment across diverse food service establishments:
- Casual Dining: These venues often offer stable employment and varying wage scales depending on popularity and volume.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: These establishments may provide more entry-level opportunities, sometimes with lower wages but potential tips in some cases.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end restaurants generally offer higher pay but require advanced skills and experience.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Larger scale kitchens might offer steady hours and benefits, impacting salary dynamics.
Each establishment type can influence the salary a Cook earns due to differing operational demands and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper-Darby for Cooks
Those interested in Cook roles might also consider related careers that involve culinary and hospitality skills.
These include careers such as Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, all offering pathways that build on the skills acquired as a Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Upper-Darby
Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal tax information, consult the Internal Revenue Service.
- Learn about federal labor laws and resources at the U.S. Department of Labor.