Line Cook Salary in Abilene, TX
Line Cooks in Abilene, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.06 per hour, which translates to about $522.40 per week, $2,263.73 per month, and $27,164.80 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Abilene is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for culinary professionals in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Abilene, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Abilene varies by experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of the average earnings at entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.92 | $436.80 | $1,891.20 | $22,118.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.06 | $522.40 | $2,263.73 | $27,164.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.62 | $624.80 | $2,711.73 | $32,489.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Abilene Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is generally behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income relies primarily on their hourly wage or salary rather than tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Abilene vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and $30,160 per year. Compared to the national figures, Line Cooks in Abilene earn slightly less at around $13.06 per hour and $27,164.80 annually.
The difference may reflect local cost of living and demand factors, with Abilene offering competitive but below-national average wages for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Abilene for Line Cooks
Nearby areas to Abilene offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- South Abilene: $15.50 per hour
- Downtown Abilene: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in these areas, where hospitality establishments tend to offer better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Abilene?
Several factors impact the salary potential of a Line Cook in Abilene:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced cooking techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at fine dining or upscale restaurants usually offers better pay compared to fast casual or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials that increase overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or food safety courses can enhance job prospects and pay.
- Local Demand: Areas with higher demand for culinary professionals can offer better compensation.
How To Become a Line Cook in Abilene
Becoming a successful Line Cook in Abilene involves a combination of education, certifications, and practical experience.
Consider enrolling in culinary training programs such as the Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Culinary Arts Program, which offers practical skills, with foundational courses available in Abilene. Nearby, Cisco College Culinary Arts Program also provides comprehensive culinary arts education emphasizing essential cooking techniques and food service management.
Obtaining food safety certifications is crucial. In Texas, the Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service workers ensuring knowledge of safe food handling. The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is also highly valued by employers, especially for supervisory roles.
Gaining hands-on experience in restaurant kitchens and building strong cooking skills are important to advancing as a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Abilene
Several well-known local and national restaurant chains regularly hire Line Cooks in Abilene, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
- Fuzzy's Taco Shop
Establishments That Line Cooks in Abilene Work At
Line Cooks can find employment in a variety of culinary establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining: Restaurants that offer moderately priced meals and table service, typically providing steady schedules but lower wages compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual: More informal dining that emphasizes quick service and quality food. Salaries here can vary but often align with or slightly exceed casual dining.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants where Line Cooks may earn higher wages due to specialized cooking and higher customer expectations.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Opportunities exist in event catering companies where pay and hours can fluctuate with seasonal demand.
The type of establishment influences salary, benefits, and work environment for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Abilene for Line Cooks
If you're exploring careers similar to Line Cook, consider these related roles which involve similar culinary skills and responsibilities:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, which share related culinary duties and have overlapping salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Abilene
Line Cooks should be informed about their rights and obligations regarding labor laws and taxation.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on wage standards and workplace rights.
- The Texas Workforce Commission's official site offers valuable resources on state labor laws, unemployment benefits, and employment services.
- The City of Abilene's official website provides local employment resources and business information helpful for Line Cooks and employers alike.