Line Cook in Albuquerque, NM
Line Cooks in Albuquerque, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $16.03 per hour, which translates to about $641.20 per week, $2,778.53 per month, and $33,342.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the culinary industry within the city and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Line Cook in Albuquerque can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.34 | $533.60 | $2,309.87 | $27,707.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,778.53 | $33,342.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.27 | $770.80 | $3,358.93 | $40,001.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn significant tips as they work behind the scenes in kitchen operations. However, in some establishments, they might receive occasional tip pools or bonuses. Generally, their income primarily comes from hourly wages rather than tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Albuquerque earn a bit less, at about $16.03 per hour and $33,342.40 annually.
This difference may relate to local cost of living and market rates in Albuquerque compared to other metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Line Cooks
Nearby areas that pay higher salaries for Line Cooks include:
- Santa Fe: $19.67 per hour
- Taos: $19.61 per hour
Line Cooks looking for higher pay might consider these nearby cities, both known for their vibrant culinary scenes.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several factors can influence the earning potential of a Line Cook in Albuquerque:
- Experience: More experienced cooks tend to earn higher wages due to enhanced skills and efficiency.
- Skill Level: Proficiency with various cooking techniques and cuisines can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast casual or smaller dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may offer higher pay or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications or food safety credentials can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Albuquerque
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Albuquerque involves several steps to build the right skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive instruction in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Take Continuing Education Courses: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Culinary Classes offer courses suitable for beginners and seasoned cooks seeking to expand their skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers in the food service industry.
- Pursue Advanced Culinary Credentials: Certifications from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can help validate expertise and increase job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Albuquerque
Many establishments in Albuquerque frequently hire Line Cooks, including major brands and local favorites such as:
- McDonald's
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- El Pinto
Establishments That Line Cooks in Albuquerque Work At
Line Cooks in Albuquerque work in a variety of settings, each offering different salary potentials:
- Fast Food Chains: Positions here often provide entry-level wages and fast-paced work environments.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer mid-range pay with opportunities to learn diverse cooking styles.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These usually offer higher pay reflecting the advanced skills required and more complex menus.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations might provide better salaries along with benefits and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on a Line Cook’s salary, with upscale and larger venues generally offering more compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to a Line Cook, consider exploring these related positions:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef, which have overlapping skills and shared culinary environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Albuquerque
Line Cooks should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Review federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Learn about New Mexico-specific labor laws at the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- For local employment resources and regulations, visit the City of Albuquerque official website.