Line Cook Salary in Brownsville, TX
Line Cooks in Brownsville, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.79 per hour, which translates to about $511.60 per week, $2,216.93 per month, and $26,603.20 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Brownsville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Brownsville, TX?
Line Cook salaries in Brownsville vary depending on experience, skills, and employer size. Below is a typical breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.37 | $374.80 | $1,616.53 | $19,489.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,216.93 | $26,603.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.45 | $698.00 | $3,011.33 | $36,296.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Brownsville Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mostly come from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Brownsville vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Line Cooks is approximately $18.02 per hour, equating to a yearly salary of about $37,481.60.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Brownsville earn less at around $12.79 per hour and $26,603.20 annually. This difference can be influenced by the regional cost of living and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Brownsville for Line Cooks
Nearby locations offer slightly higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Brownsville: $13.50 per hour
- North Brownsville: $14.00 per hour
Considering commuting to these areas could increase earning potential for Line Cooks in the Brownsville region.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Brownsville?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Brownsville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks who possess advanced culinary skills or specialize in certain cuisines tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels often pay higher salaries compared to fast casual or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Night shifts or holiday work might come with additional pay or differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety qualifications can enhance credibility, thereby improving pay prospects.
- Local Economic Conditions: Economic growth in Brownsville and surrounding areas can influence the demand and pay scale for culinary roles.
How To Become a Line Cook in Brownsville
Launching a career as a Line Cook in Brownsville involves several important steps.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Local institutions like Texas Southmost College Culinary Arts Program and South Texas College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Earn Professional Recognition: Credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation recognize competence and commitment in culinary arts.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting with apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen positions helps develop essential skills and build a professional network.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Brownsville
Several well-known restaurant chains currently hire Line Cooks in Brownsville:
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Kumori Sushi
Establishments That Line Cooks in Brownsville Work At
Line Cooks in Brownsville typically find work in a range of food service establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These are common for Line Cooks and offer steady work, although typically at lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: More prestigious venues with higher pay but often more demanding preparation and presentation standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may offer better pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: These roles may provide variety but can be seasonal or event-driven.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary levels, job responsibilities, and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Brownsville for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Line Cook, the following positions are closely aligned and may offer alternative or complementary opportunities.
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager roles, which build on similar skill sets and offer different career paths within the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Brownsville
Line Cooks should be well-informed about regional labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on U.S. labor regulations.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website provides state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- Check policies and resources via the City of Brownsville official website for local ordinances and support.