What are the main factors that influence a Food Handler's salary?

The primary factors are: 1) Experience Level, 2) Geographic Location, 3) Education/Skills, 4) Company Size & Industry

How does experience change A Food Handler's salary?

A Food Handler's salary grows with experience: a Cook I (0-1 years)earns $34,684, a Food Handler (1-3 years)earns $38,612, a Cook III (3-5 years)earns $43,481, a Sous Chef (5+ years)earns $57,082,

What are the highest paying states for a Food Handler?

Food Handler salary varies significantly by state. The top 3 highest paying states for Food Handler roles are District of Columbia $42,440, California $42,279, Massachusetts $41,715. These tech hubs typically pay 10-15% above the national average.

How much do different types of Food Handler roles make?

Salaries for Food Handler level roles vary by specialization: Case Handler: $86,861; Incident Handler: $48,524; Dog Handler: $47,731; Materials Handler: $41,614; Account Handler: $41,228.

How do different companies affect a Food Handler's salary?

Company size, industry, and compensation structure create significant salary variations for Food Handler roles. Large, established industry leaders like C R Bard Inc ($128,509) and Henry Schein Canada ($124,697) offer base salaries 35-40% above the national average. In contrast, smaller firms or startups may offer closer to $82,041.

Food Handler Salary, Hourly Rate (January 01, 2026) in the United States

How much does a Food Handler make in the United States?

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Food Handler in the United States is $38,331 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.

However, a Food Handler's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range: