Line Cook Salary in Cambridge, MA
Line Cooks in Cambridge, MA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.93 per hour, which translates to about $837.20 per week, $3,627.87 per month, and $43,534.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Cambridge is growing steadily with a 5% increase per year, indicating an expanding culinary job market in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Cambridge can differ according to experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.47 | $658.80 | $2,848.40 | $34,180.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.38 | $815.20 | $3,518.53 | $42,182.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.22 | $1,008.80 | $4,364.53 | $52,457.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips because their work is mainly backstage, preparing food rather than interacting directly with patrons. Their earnings generally come from their base salary or hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Across the United States, Line Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $18.86, which corresponds to approximately $39,228.80 per year.
Compared with the national average, Line Cooks in Cambridge earn a higher rate, about $20.93 per hour and $43,534.40 annually, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand in this metropolitan area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay for Line Cooks, such as:
- Kendall Square: $22.50 per hour
- Harvard Square: $21.80 per hour
Kendall Square pays the highest rates, offering competitive wages for culinary professionals close to Cambridge.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook earns in Cambridge:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Positions in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally pay more than those in casual or fast-food environments.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in various cooking techniques or cuisines can lead to better salary offers.
- Shift Timing: Working peak or overnight shifts may come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Economic Factors: Cambridge’s higher cost of living influences employers to offer more competitive salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Cambridge
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Cambridge involves a few important steps.
- Formal Culinary Training: Enrolling in programs like those at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts offers professional chef and pastry certificate courses to build strong culinary foundations.
- Additional Food & Wine Programs: Institutions such as Boston University Metropolitan College provide hands-on culinary arts and wine studies programs beneficial to aspiring cooks.
- Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a nationally recognized credential that is highly valued.
- Allergen Awareness Training: Massachusetts mandates allergen management training for food service workers, making this a critical qualification.
- Work Experience: Gaining experience through internships or positions in casual dining helps establish practical skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Cambridge
Several notable establishments in Cambridge frequently seek qualified Line Cooks:
- The Hourly Oyster House
- Legal Sea Foods
- The Charles Hotel
Establishments That Line Cooks in Cambridge Work At
Line Cooks generally find employment in a variety of dining venues, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer numerous job opportunities though wage levels may be on the lower side compared to fine dining.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Pay rates tend to be higher due to the complexity and prestige associated with the cuisine and service standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hotels, such as The Charles Hotel, often provide benefits and competitive wages.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: These places may pay according to skill level and specific culinary expertise.
The type of establishment significantly impacts earning potential, with upscale venues generally offering better salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to being a Line Cook, consider exploring these similar careers that share culinary skills and experience requirements.
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, roles that often overlap or serve as career progressions from being a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Cambridge
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor laws to understand their employment rights and tax responsibilities.
- The Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers comprehensive information about labor laws, minimum wage, overtime, and workplace regulations.
- For federal standards and workplace laws refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's website, which provides valuable resources and guidance.