Line Cook Salary in Bellevue, WA
Line Cooks in Bellevue, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.33 per hour, which translates to about $893.20 per week, $3,870.53 per month, and $46,446.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Bellevue is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Bellevue, WA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Bellevue can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Here's a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.79 | $751.60 | $3,254.93 | $39,123.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.33 | $893.20 | $3,870.53 | $46,446.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.55 | $1,062.00 | $4,575.00 | $54,024.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Bellevue Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchen preparation and cooking. Their earnings are therefore based primarily on their salary or hourly wage without additional tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Bellevue vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour and about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Bellevue earn substantially more, approximately $22.33 per hour and $46,446.40 annually. This difference likely reflects Bellevue's higher cost of living and strong local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bellevue for Line Cooks
When considering nearby locations, Line Cook salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Bellevue: $24.00 per hour
- Bellevue Square: $23.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Bellevue tend to have the highest pay rates in the vicinity, making it an attractive area for culinary workers seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Bellevue?
Several factors strongly influence the salary of a Line Cook in Bellevue:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues generally pay better than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Culinary Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or completion of culinary arts programs can increase earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays might come with premium pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Bellevue’s higher living costs and demand for quality dining options push salaries upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Bellevue
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Bellevue involves several important steps:
- Enrolling in Culinary Education: Programs like Lake Washington Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program and Seattle Culinary Academy provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Obtaining Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring the Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for working in food service. Additionally, many employers require the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification for food handling competence.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen assistant or prep cook before becoming a Line Cook helps build foundational skills.
- Developing Specialized Skills: Focus on areas such as grilled items, sautéing, or specific cuisine types to stand out.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Bellevue
Several notable establishments in Bellevue actively seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- The Lakehouse Bellevue
- Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar
- John Howie Steak
Establishments That Line Cooks in Bellevue Work At
Line Cooks in Bellevue typically find employment across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer standard hourly wages with potential for tips depending on the kitchen setup.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Usually provide steady hours but lower pay than fine dining.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages and provide opportunities for skill advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer better pay and benefits compared to standalone restaurants.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly impact salary, with fine dining kitchens typically providing the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bellevue for Line Cooks
If you're considering career paths related to Line Cook, here are some similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These roles include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, each with distinct responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Bellevue
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their work in Bellevue and Washington State.
- Information on state labor laws and workplace rights is available through the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be researched on the U.S. Department of Labor website.