Lead Cook salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Lead Cook in United States is approximately 35,412 USD (35,278 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Lead Cook do?

The occupation of a lead cook involves overseeing and managing the kitchen operations in a restaurant or food establishment. They are responsible for supervising and coordinating the activities of the kitchen staff, including assigning tasks, training new employees, and ensuring that all food is prepared and presented in accordance with quality standards. Lead cooks also create and modify recipes, develop menus, and monitor inventory to ensure that ingredients are available and fresh. They must maintain a clean and organized kitchen, enforce safety and sanitation regulations, and handle any customer complaints or special dietary requests. Additionally, lead cooks may be involved in budgeting and cost control measures, as well as collaborating with management to improve operational efficiency.

Skills: Lead Cook, Kitchen Supervisor, Food Preparation, Menu Development, Staff Training, Sanitation Compliance.
Job industry: Food and beverage

How much does Lead Cook make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Lead Cook a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Lead Cook is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Lead Cook might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Lead Cook?

High salary for Lead Cook would be somewhere between 38,953 USD and 51,347 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lead Cook in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 35,412 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 2,951 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 681 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 17 USD per hour
By working as Lead Cook a person can save up to 660 USD per month or 7,918 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Lead Cook

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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