Cook Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Cooks in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.73 per hour, which translates to about $589.20 per week, $2,553.20 per month, and $30,638.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Winston-Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Cook in Winston-Salem can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following table outlines approximate earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.54 | $421.60 | $1,822.93 | $21,875.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.73 | $589.20 | $2,553.20 | $30,638.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.58 | $823.20 | $3,553.60 | $42,726.40 |
Do Cooks in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work usually takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their total compensation primarily consists of hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.73 per hour and about $30,638.40 per year.
In comparison, Cooks in Winston-Salem earn about the same as the national average, reflecting standard wage levels consistent with many other U.S. locations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Cooks
Nearby areas can offer different pay scales for Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West End: $17.60 per hour
Cooks working in West End tend to have access to the highest wages among local neighborhoods, followed by Downtown.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills can command higher pay.
Type of Establishment: Cooks employed at upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more than those in fast food or casual dining.
Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with a pay differential or overtime opportunities.
Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications can enhance earning potential by qualifying Cooks for higher-level roles.
Local Demand and Economy: Wage levels also depend on Winston-Salem’s economic conditions and the hospitality industry's health.
How To Become a Cook in Winston-Salem
Starting a career as a Cook in Winston-Salem involves several key steps.
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs like the Forsyth Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate in Applied Science degree providing hands-on and theoretical culinary training.
- Consider Hospitality Degrees: Winston-Salem State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management covering food production and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential for food safety compliance and often required by employers.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level credential demonstrating fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships provides valuable on-the-job skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Winston-Salem
Several major employers frequently hire Cooks in Winston-Salem including:
- First Watch
- Atrium Health
- Morrison Healthcare
Establishments That Cooks in Winston-Salem Work At
Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments across Winston-Salem. These locations influence pay levels and work environments.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Common employers offering stable hourly wages with opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: These usually provide higher salaries and benefits, demanding more refined culinary skills.
- Healthcare Facilities and Cafeterias: Institutions like Atrium Health employ Cooks to prepare meals on a large scale, usually offering competitive pay with steady hours.
- Catering and Event Services: These can offer higher pay per event but fewer consistent hours.
The type and prestige of the establishment, along with its size and clientele, largely determine salary differences for Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Cooks
If you are interested in a career similar to Cook, you might consider the following related roles.
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which require various skill levels and responsibilities within the kitchen hierarchy.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Winston-Salem
Cooks should be aware of key labor laws and tax requirements to ensure legal and fair employment conditions.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on workplace standards.
- For state-specific employment rights and regulations, check the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- The Official website of Winston-Salem provides local government resources helpful for workers and employers alike.