Line Cook Salary in Austin, TX
Line Cooks in Austin, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $17.12 per hour, which translates to about $684.80 per week, $2,967.47 per month, and $35,609.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Austin is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for those pursuing a career in the culinary field in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Austin, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Austin varies by experience and proficiency. Here's an overview of expected earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.76 | $510.40 | $2,212.13 | $26,540.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.12 | $684.80 | $2,967.47 | $35,609.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.97 | $918.80 | $3,957.87 | $47,737.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Austin Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their earnings typically come solely from their wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Austin, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.04 per hour, which amounts to about $37,523.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Austin earn slightly less with a rate of approximately $17.12 per hour and $35,609.60 per year, reflecting the local cost of living and regional market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Austin for Line Cooks
Within the Austin area, some neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Line Cooks:
- South Congress: $19.00 per hour
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
These areas often have upscale restaurants and higher customer demand, which can contribute to better compensation for kitchen staff.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Austin?
Several key factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Austin:
- Experience and Skill: More seasoned Line Cooks with refined skills in food preparation often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end or specialty restaurants usually offers better pay than casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications: Food safety or culinary certifications can enhance marketability and salary prospects.
- Work Hours: Shift differentials for evenings, weekends, or holidays can increase overall earnings.
- Location: Restaurants in thriving neighborhoods or tourist areas may pay higher wages due to demand and customer volume.
How To Become a Line Cook in Austin
Embarking on a career as a Line Cook in Austin involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and Austin Community College Culinary Arts Program offer practical training and culinary expertise targeted for aspiring chefs and cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring credentials such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with health standards and is often a job requirement.
- Gain Experience: Starting with internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level kitchen roles can help you develop on-the-job skills.
- Showcase Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Being reliable and a good team player is essential to progressing in a busy kitchen environment.
- Consider Entry-Level Credentialing: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can signal a commitment to professionalism.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Austin
Austin is home to a rich culinary scene with several notable establishments seeking skilled Line Cooks:
- Uchiko
- Emmer & Rye
- Loro
Establishments That Line Cooks in Austin Work At
Line Cooks in Austin are employed across various types of dining establishments:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Often provide stable work with competitive pay but may offer limited advancement.
- Fast Casual Dining: Focus on speed and volume, usually with moderate compensation.
- High-End and Fine Dining: These places typically pay more due to the need for specialized cooking skills and quality standards.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Opportunities here can include diverse culinary experiences and benefits that influence salary positively.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining salary, with upscale venues generally offering the most lucrative pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Austin for Line Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Line Cook positions, consider these similar careers in Austin:
Positions such as Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook offer related career paths within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Austin
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Line Cooks working in Austin.
- Visit the Texas official government website for information about state labor regulations, employment rights, and wage standards.
- For federal labor laws and occupational safety guidelines, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.