Hands-onCoordinate multiple cooking tasks and timing sequences during high-volume service periods to ensure timely meal delivery.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate commercial kitchen equipment including ovens, ranges, grills, and fryers following food safety protocols and temperature requirements.
Developing
KnowledgeApply recipes and cooking techniques to prepare menu items according to established standards and portion sizes.
Developing
Hands-onExecute knife skills and food preparation techniques to efficiently prepare ingredients for cooking.
Developing
KnowledgeModify recipes and preparation methods to accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and special customer requests.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative kitchen teamwork communicating effectively with servers, kitchen staff, and management.
Developing
KnowledgeApply food safety and sanitation procedures throughout food storage, preparation, and service to prevent contamination.
Developing
Hands-onExecute plating and presentation techniques to ensure visual appeal and consistency of finished dishes.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify food quality indicators and freshness standards when inspecting ingredients and prepared dishes.
Emerging
KnowledgeEstimate ingredient quantities and cooking times to maintain inventory levels and minimize food waste.
Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cooks, All Other (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,590
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $26,430. 25th percentile: U.S. $31,200. 50th percentile: U.S. $36,210. 75th percentile: U.S. $42,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $49,600. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$26,430
10% of workers earn the following or more
$49,600
Workers on average earn
$38,000
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
