Cook Salary in Wichita Falls, TX
Cooks in Wichita Falls, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Wichita Falls is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Wichita Falls, TX?
The salary for a Cook in Wichita Falls varies based on experience and skill level. Here is an overview:
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Cooks in Wichita Falls Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips since they primarily work behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their income is generally based solely on their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Wichita Falls vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average hourly wage of $14.50, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Wichita Falls earn slightly less, making about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 per year. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and regional demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita Falls for Cooks
The following nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Sikes Senter Mall Area: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working closer to the Sikes Senter Mall Area may find better compensation compared to other local areas.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Wichita Falls?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Wichita Falls:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those with specialized cooking skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Restaurants with fine dining, hotels, or catering services may offer higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and knowledge of food safety can improve salary prospects.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays might come with extra pay incentives.
- Local Economy and Demand: Wichita Falls’ economic situation and hospitality demand affect compensation levels.
How To Become a Cook in Wichita Falls
To start a career as a Cook in Wichita Falls, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Vernon College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program that teaches cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and important for food handling and sanitation knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions such as kitchen assistant or prep cook provide valuable hands-on experience.
- Develop Key Skills: Cultivate skills like multitasking, time management, and teamwork which are critical for success in a kitchen.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Wichita Falls
Some of the major employers looking for skilled Cooks in Wichita Falls include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Robin
- Chili's
Establishments That Cooks in Wichita Falls Work At
Cooks can find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady employment but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often high-paced environments with varied pay scales.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer higher wages reflecting the skill and service level required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can offer additional benefits and higher salaries for skilled Cooks.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: Opportunities for flexible hours and potential higher earnings.
The type of establishment significantly influences earnings, with fine dining and hotels tending to pay more than fast food or casual places.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita Falls for Cooks
Those interested in related career paths to Cook may consider exploring the following similar roles:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, each involving culinary skills and different levels of responsibility and salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Wichita Falls
It is essential for Cooks to understand applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- For Texas state-specific labor information, visit the Texas government website.
- Detailed federal labor laws and employment standards are available through the U.S. Department of Labor website.