How much does a Cook make in Salem, OR?
In Salem, OR, Cooks work in a variety of settings, including restaurants, hotels, and schools. They prepare food for customers and ensure that it meets quality standards. The average yearly salary for a Cook in Salem is $37,283. This figure provides a solid understanding of what to expect in terms of compensation.
Cooks in Salem can expect to earn salaries in a range. The lowest 10% of Cooks make around $31,150 annually. Most Cooks earn between $32,808 and $39,442 each year. The highest 10% can earn upwards of $49,392 per year. Factors such as experience, type of employer, and specific skills can influence these earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Salem, OR?

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Lincoln City, OR
Average Salary: $43,610
In Lincoln City, chefs work in vibrant beachside restaurants. The city's focus on seafood offers great opportunities. Popular spots like the Tidewater Lodge provide a chance to serve tourists and locals alike.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $42,253
Portland is known for its food scene. Cooks here enjoy working in diverse environments from trendy cafes to high-end restaurants. Companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Voodoo Doughnuts are well-known.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $41,861
Bend offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and culinary experiences. Chefs here cater to outdoor enthusiasts and visitors. Places like The Old Squaw Restaurant provide a mix of rustic charm and gourmet dishes.
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Hillsboro, OR
Average Salary: $40,412
Hillsboro has a growing tech scene and a vibrant dining culture. Cooks can find jobs in family-owned restaurants and modern eateries. The city's focus on community events provides great exposure.
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Forest Grove, OR
Average Salary: $40,139
Forest Grove combines small-town charm with a budding food culture. Cooks here work in cozy restaurants and local diners. The community's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients is a highlight.
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Sherwood, OR
Average Salary: $39,910
Sherwood offers a mix of residential and commercial dining options. Cooks can find work in family-friendly restaurants and local cafes. The city's growing population supports a steady demand for culinary services.
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Lake Oswego, OR
Average Salary: $39,684
Lake Oswego's upscale dining scene provides excellent opportunities for cooks. The city attracts a wealthy clientele, and chefs work in sophisticated restaurants. Companies like The Lake Restaurant offer a chance to shine.
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Gresham, OR
Average Salary: $39,472
Gresham's diverse community means cooks have varied dining options. From ethnic restaurants to family diners, chefs here cater to many tastes. The area's growing population offers a steady job market.
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Tigard, OR
Average Salary: $39,260
Tigard's blend of urban and suburban lifestyles creates a dynamic food scene. Cooks here can find jobs in a range of settings, from casual eateries to fine dining. The city's diverse population enhances the culinary experience.
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Medford, OR
Average Salary: $38,381
Medford offers a mix of natural beauty and culinary opportunities. Chefs can work in scenic restaurants that emphasize local produce. The city's growing food culture attracts a variety of diners.
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What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Salem, OR?

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Oregon Health Authority
Average Salary: $49,596
At Oregon Health Authority, Cooks prepare meals for state employees and visitors. They work in Salem and other locations across Oregon. This role involves following recipes, ensuring food safety, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness.
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Salem Health
Average Salary: $41,310
Salem Health offers Cook positions in their cafeterias and dining areas. Cooks here prepare a variety of meals for patients, visitors, and staff. The work focuses on both speed and quality, ensuring everyone gets fresh meals.
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Ohana Ventures
Average Salary: $41,000
Ohana Ventures provides Cook positions where they prepare meals for their residential services. Cooks work in Salem and ensure all meals meet nutritional guidelines and quality standards.
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IHOP
Average Salary: $40,167
IHOP in Salem offers Cook positions with a focus on serving breakfast all day. Cooks prepare pancakes, eggs, and other breakfast items. The work environment is fast-paced and requires teamwork to handle busy periods.
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Brookdale Senior Living
Average Salary: $38,403
At Brookdale Senior Living, Cooks prepare meals for elderly residents. They ensure meals are both nutritious and enjoyable. This role involves working closely with residents to meet their dietary needs.
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Regency Pacific
Average Salary: $38,105
Regency Pacific offers Cook positions where they focus on creating meals for their residents. Cooks work in Salem and prepare a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes and health needs.
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Genuine Foods
Average Salary: $38,067
Genuine Foods in Salem provides Cook positions that involve preparing meals for their clients. Cooks ensure all meals meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
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Cascade Living Group
Average Salary: $37,500
Cascade Living Group offers Cook positions where they prepare meals for their residents. Cooks in Salem work to create balanced and delicious meals to meet the residents' dietary requirements.
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Trio
Average Salary: $36,000
Trio in Salem provides Cook positions where they prepare meals for their clients. Cooks ensure all meals are prepared safely and meet the dietary needs of the clients.
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Denny's
Average Salary: $35,150
Denny's in Salem offers Cook positions where they prepare a variety of meals throughout the day. Cooks ensure that all food is prepared on time and to the highest standards.
What are the best paying Cook related jobs in Salem, OR?

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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $59,186
This position helps lead the kitchen team. It works closely with the head chef to prepare menus. It manages food prep and kitchen staff. The role often involves creating delicious dishes and maintaining kitchen standards.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $57,469
Manage daily operations in a bustling eatery. Oversee kitchen and front-of-house staff. Ensure customers have a great dining experience. This role often involves coordinating with suppliers and maintaining inventory.
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Fast Food Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $55,188
Lead a fast-paced food service environment. Ensure quick and efficient service. Train and supervise staff. This role often involves handling customer complaints and ensuring cleanliness.
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Dietary Manager
Average Salary: $51,794
Oversee food service in healthcare facilities. Ensure meals meet dietary needs. Work with nutritionists to create balanced menus. This role often involves coordinating with kitchen staff and monitoring food quality.
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Catering Manager
Average Salary: $50,000
Plan and execute meals for events. Coordinate with clients and vendors. Ensure timely delivery of food. This role often involves managing budgets and staff during events.
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Pastry Chef
Average Salary: $47,300
Create delicious baked goods and desserts. Work with other chefs to coordinate meals. Ensure quality and presentation. This role often involves experimenting with new recipes and techniques.
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Restaurant Supervisor
Average Salary: $43,655
Assist the manager in overseeing the restaurant. Train and guide kitchen staff. Ensure food quality and service standards. This role often involves problem-solving and staff motivation.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $38,472
Lead the kitchen team. Plan menus and order supplies. Ensure smooth kitchen operations. This role often involves coordinating with other departments and managing kitchen budgets.
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Dietary Aide
Average Salary: $34,766
Help prepare and serve meals in healthcare settings. Follow dietary restrictions. Maintain a clean and safe kitchen. This role often involves assisting cooks and cleaning up after meals.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,520
Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure quality. Work as part of a team. This role often involves handling multiple tasks and working under pressure.
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