Cook Salary in Waco, TX
Cooks in Waco, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.10 per hour, which translates to about $564.00 per week, $2,444.00 per month, and $29,328.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Waco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and healthy opportunities for individuals pursuing this career path in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Cook in Waco, TX, varies depending on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.40 | $456.00 | $1,973.33 | $23,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,442.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.43 | $697.20 | $3,015.47 | $36,254.40 |
Do Cooks in Waco Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role typically involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their base salary or wages without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which is approximately $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Waco earn less, with about $14.10 per hour and $29,328 annually. This difference can be influenced by regional cost of living and local job market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Cooks:
- Downtown Waco: $15.50 per hour
- Baylor University Area: $17.60 per hour
Areas like Baylor University offer higher wages reflecting perhaps a greater demand or more upscale establishments around these locations.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Waco?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Cook in Waco:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks tend to command higher wages due to their enhanced skills and efficiency in the kitchen.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining, hotels, or upscale restaurants often pays better compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Skill Set and Specialization: Skills such as menu planning, food presentation, and knowledge of diverse cuisines can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours Worked: Night shifts or longer hours may include higher pay or overtime benefits.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and competition among local establishments affect salary levels.
How To Become a Cook in Waco
Becoming a Cook in Waco involves several practical steps and possible formal training options:
- Consider Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Texas State Technical College provide hands-on training in menu planning, catering, butchering, and advanced pastry techniques.
- Culinary Schools: The Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Austin, TX, offers culinary arts and pastry arts programs focusing on classical and modern techniques.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are important for demonstrating food safety knowledge.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: On-the-job experience is crucial; working as a kitchen assistant or line cook can help build the foundational skills.
- Earn Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation validates culinary skills and knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Waco
Some of the prominent employers that frequently hire Cooks in Waco include:
- Texas Health and Human Services Commission
- US Department of Veterans Affairs
- Texas Juvenile Justice Department
Establishments That Cooks in Waco Work At
Cooks in Waco find employment in a range of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, hotels, catering companies, and institutional kitchens.
The type of establishment greatly affects the salary:
- Casual Dining: Often offers moderate wages with potential for steady hours.
- Fast Casual: Usually entry-level friendly with standard pay rates.
- Hotels and Catering: Tend to pay higher salaries and may offer benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as hospitals or government facilities, where pay can be steady and benefits consistent.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Cooks
If you are interested in related career paths in hospitality alongside being a Cook, consider these options:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook roles, which share skill sets and kitchen responsibilities with the Cook position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Waco
Cooks should be informed about the labor laws and tax obligations affecting their work in Waco:
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission oversees state employment laws and regulations.
- For local government information, including workplace regulations and business licensing, check the Official website of the City of Waco.