Line Cook Salary in Bridgeport, CT
Line Cooks in Bridgeport, CT, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Bridgeport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role in the coming years.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Bridgeport, CT?
The salary of a Line Cook in Bridgeport varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different stages of a Line Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Bridgeport Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work is behind the scenes and involves food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily derived from their hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in Bridgeport vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $19.49 per hour, which equates to approximately $40,539.20 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Bridgeport earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $18.00 and annual earnings of $37,440.00. This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bridgeport for Line Cooks
Several neighborhoods near Bridgeport offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- Black Rock: $19.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer competitive pay due to their vibrant dining scenes and demand for culinary staff.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Bridgeport?
Experience and skill level play a major role in determining a Line Cook's earnings. Those with several years of experience or specialization in certain cuisines can command higher wages.
The type of establishment is also critical. Line Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens usually earn more compared to those in fast-food chains or casual dining venues.
Shift timings can affect income too; working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with additional pay.
Having formal culinary training or certifications can improve earning potential and job prospects, as these credentials demonstrate competency and professionalism to employers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Bridgeport
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Bridgeport involves several steps:
- Get professional training: Programs such as Culinary Arts at Bullard-Havens Technical High School offer hands-on training in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations.
- Consider further education: Culinary Arts Program at Housatonic Community College provides comprehensive culinary training, preparing students for various roles in the kitchen.
- Earn food safety certifications: ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required for foodservice jobs.
- Obtain culinary credentials: Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can boost your qualifications.
- Gain experience: Entry-level kitchen work or apprenticeships help develop practical skills essential for this role.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Bridgeport
Several well-known establishments in Bridgeport actively seek skilled Line Cooks:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Black Rock Yacht Club
- Ralph 'n' Rich's Restaurant
Establishments That Line Cooks in Bridgeport Work At
Line Cooks frequently work in diverse dining settings such as casual restaurants, fast casual chains, fine dining establishments, and hotel kitchens.
The type of establishment influences salary structures. For example, fine dining venues may offer higher wages due to the complexity of dishes and demand for culinary skill, while fast casual restaurants might provide steadier hours but lower wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bridgeport for Line Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to being a Line Cook, here are some options worth exploring.
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager—roles that require progressive culinary skills and carry varying levels of responsibility and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Bridgeport
As a Line Cook in Bridgeport, it is important to understand the applicable labor laws and tax regulations to protect your rights and comply with legal obligations.