Cook Salary in Waipahu, HI
Cooks in Waipahu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.25 per hour, which translates to about $730.00 per week, $3,163.33 per month, and $37,960.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Waipahu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and expanding opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Waipahu, HI?
The salary of a Cook in Waipahu varies based on experience, skill level, and employer type. Here's a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.25 | $730.00 | $3,163.33 | $37,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.43 | $937.20 | $4,055.73 | $48,614.40 |
Do Cooks in Waipahu Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income primarily consists of their wages.
Cook Salary in Waipahu vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, equating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Waipahu earn higher wages, around $18.25 per hour and $37,960 annually, which reflects the local market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waipahu for Cooks
Nearby localities and their Cook hourly wages include:
- Royal Kunia: $18.25 per hour
- Waipio Gentry: $17.50 per hour
Royal Kunia offers the top hourly pay for Cooks in the vicinity, closely followed by Waipio Gentry. These areas provide competitive salaries for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Waipahu?
Cooks’ salaries in Waipahu are influenced by a variety of factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized techniques generally earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or resorts can offer higher pay compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Times: Evening and weekend shifts might come with higher wages due to demand.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Economic factors in Waipahu and nearby areas affect wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Waipahu
To start a career as a Cook in Waipahu, consider the following steps to enhance your employability and skills:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program and Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training combining theory and practice.
- Earn Food Handler Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit are essential certifications ensuring compliance with health regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to develop skills and advance your cooking techniques.
- Stay Updated on Food Safety Standards: Understanding and applying food safety laws and regulations is vital in any kitchen role.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Waipahu
Some notable employers actively hiring Cooks in Waipahu include:
- Times Supermarket
- Highway Inn
- Nancy's Kitchen
- Zippy's
- Ono Seafood
Establishments That Cooks in Waipahu Work At
Cooks in Waipahu typically find roles in various food service settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Usually provide entry-level opportunities with potential for quick advancement.
- Resorts and Hotels: Often pay higher salaries and provide benefits due to upscale service demands.
- Catering Services and Specialty Food Shops: May provide niche opportunities with varied pay depending on the business size and clientele.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary levels, with resorts and specialty venues typically offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waipahu for Cooks
If you're interested in exploring careers related to Cook, consider these similar roles that share related skills and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Waipahu
Cooks in Waipahu should be aware of both federal and local labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance in the workplace.
- Check The U.S. Department of Labor's official website for comprehensive federal labor laws including wage standards and employment regulations.
- Visit The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations site for state-specific labor law information and worker rights.
- For local government resources and business regulations, consult The City and County of Honolulu's official website.