Line Cook Salary in Bloomington, IN
Line Cooks in Bloomington, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.12 per hour, which equates to about $604.80 per week, $2,620.80 per month, and $31,449.60 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Bloomington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the culinary field locally.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Bloomington, IN?
The earnings of a Line Cook in Bloomington vary depending on experience levels, with pay increasing as skills and responsibilities grow.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.98 | $479.20 | $2,072.53 | $24,870.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.12 | $604.80 | $2,620.80 | $31,449.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.07 | $762.80 | $3,287.07 | $39,625.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Bloomington Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn direct tips, as their role is primarily kitchen-focused and behind the scenes. Their income is generally based on hourly wage without tip supplements.
Line Cook Salary in Bloomington vs. National Average
Nationally, the average pay for Line Cooks is about $15.12 per hour and $31,449.60 annually.
Line Cooks in Bloomington align closely with these national averages, earning similar wages reflecting local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bloomington for Line Cooks
Nearby areas around Bloomington offer varying wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to East Side might access slightly higher pay compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Bloomington?
Several important factors impact the salary a Line Cook can earn in Bloomington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with developed culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically offer higher pay than fast casual or smaller businesses.
- Certifications: Having food safety certifications or culinary training can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand: Growing culinary scenes or higher demand in certain parts of Bloomington may drive salaries upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Bloomington
Becoming a skilled Line Cook in Bloomington involves several key steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Consider programs like the Indiana University Food Studies Certificate, which covers comprehensive food science and culinary topics.
- Associate Degrees: The Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program offers an Associate’s degree that prepares students with operational hospitality skills.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial to understanding proper food handling and sanitation.
- Entry-Level Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation is great for demonstrating foundational culinary skills.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Working under experienced chefs in internships or entry roles helps develop essential cooking techniques.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Bloomington
Some prominent employers often hiring Line Cooks in Bloomington include:
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Line Cooks in Bloomington Work At
Line Cooks work in a variety of culinary environments, each impacting the pay scale:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Mid-range establishments where Line Cooks often gain diverse cooking experience, usually offering moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Fast-paced kitchens often with standardized menus and hourly wages reflecting the quick service style.
- Fine Dining: High-end restaurants generally pay higher salaries due to specialized skills and culinary standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations with diverse menus and clientele, often providing competitive salaries and benefits.
Salary differences often depend on the establishment’s prestige, menu complexity, and clientele expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bloomington for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Line Cook, consider exploring the following similar positions that might match your skills and career goals:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, all of which involve culinary responsibilities at various levels of expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Bloomington
Line Cooks need to stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- Access the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor regulations and worker protections.
- Visit Indiana’s official government site to find detailed information on state-specific labor laws and employment resources.