Line Cook Salary in Baytown, TX
Line Cooks in Baytown, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $12.41 per hour, which translates to about $496.40 per week, $2,151.07 per month, and $25,812.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Baytown is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career stability in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Baytown, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Baytown 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) | $10.35 | $414.00 | $1,794.00 | $21,528.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,151.07 | $25,812.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.87 | $594.80 | $2,569.07 | $30,949.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Baytown Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Most of their income is derived from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Baytown vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Baytown earn slightly less, at about $12.41 per hour and $25,812.80 annually.
This difference can be due to cost of living, regional demand, and local economic factors influencing wages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baytown for Line Cooks
Examining nearby areas, the pay for Line Cooks varies slightly:
- Pasadena: $13.50 per hour
- La Porte: $14.00 per hour
Line Cooks commuting to La Porte might find slightly higher wages, while Pasadena also offers competitive pay compared to Baytown.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Baytown?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Line Cook in Baytown:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants typically offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may come with higher pay rates.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and completion of food safety programs can positively impact earnings.
- Local Economy and Demand: Economic conditions and restaurant density in Baytown can affect wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Baytown
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Baytown involves several practical steps.
- Obtain Basic Culinary Training: Attend local institutions like Culinary Institute LeNôtre in Houston, TX, which offers associate degrees and diplomas in culinary arts and related fields.
- Enroll in High School Culinary Programs: Programs like the one at Carl Wunsche Sr. High School in Spring, TX, provide foundational skills and certification aligned with the American Culinary Federation.
- Get Food Safety Certifications: Earning the Food Handler Certification required in Texas and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification boosts employability and compliance with health standards.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions allows gaining practical skills and advancing to Line Cook roles.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Baytown
Several established employers in Baytown regularly seek qualified Line Cooks:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Mambo Seafood Restaurants
- Sonic Drive-In
Establishments That Line Cooks in Baytown Work At
Line Cooks frequently work in a variety of food service settings including:
- Fast Food Chains: These establishments have high volume but often offer lower wages.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with possibilities for tips in some cases.
- Seafood and Specialty Restaurants: Likely to offer higher pay reflecting specialized skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide stable hours and competitively adjusted wages.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary, with specialty and fine dining venues typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baytown for Line Cooks
Those interested in careers connected to Line Cook roles might consider other related positions in the hospitality industry.
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, all of which involve related culinary skills and can provide career growth options.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Baytown
Line Cooks in Baytown should be aware of specific labor laws and tax requirements to navigate work conditions and responsibilities effectively.
- Visit the Texas Workforce Commission website for details on state labor laws, employment rights, and workforce development.
- For federal labor standards and workplace safety, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.