Line Cook Salary in Camden, NJ
Line Cooks in Camden, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.80 per hour, which translates to about $712.00 per week, $3,085.33 per month, and $37,024.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Camden is growing by about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career advancement in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Camden, NJ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Camden varies based on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of the approximate earnings based on experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,413.33 | $28,560.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.80 | $712.00 | $3,085.33 | $37,024.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Camden Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen and behind the scenes. Their compensation generally comes from their hourly wages or salary rather than gratuities. Tips, if any, may be shared sporadically depending on the establishment’s policy.
Line Cook Salary in Camden vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, equating to roughly $30,160.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Camden Line Cooks earn $17.80 per hour and $37,024.00 per year, which is notably higher. This increase reflects local market demands and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Camden for Line Cooks
Nearby areas often offer varied salary opportunities for Line Cooks. Here are some locations close to Camden with higher pay rates:
- Battello: $20.00 per hour
- Starlight Lounge: $19.00 per hour
Working in these establishments may offer Line Cooks an opportunity to earn above the typical Camden wage, often linked to the restaurant’s prestige and customer base.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Camden?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Line Cook in Camden:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with strong culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-end restaurants often yields better pay than fast-food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with differential pay.
- Certifications and Training: Additional qualifications, such as food safety or culinary certifications, can enhance earning potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: The economic climate and demand for foodservice workers in Camden influence wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Camden
Becoming a Line Cook in Camden involves a combination of practical skills, education, and certifications:
- Culinary Certificate at Camden County College: This program prepares students for entry-level positions in various food service contexts, including restaurants and hotels.
- Culinary Arts Program at Camden County College: Offers comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and includes the chance to earn ServSafe Certification.
- ServSafe Certification: An important credential for food safety knowledge required by many employers.
- Food Handler's Permit: Some jurisdictions require this certification to verify safe food handling practices.
- Gain Experience: Many start as prep cooks or kitchen assistants to build hands-on skills.
Formal training combined with practical experience greatly helps in securing Line Cook positions in Camden’s competitive food service industry.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Camden
Several well-known establishments in Camden frequently seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Battello
- Starlight Lounge
- The Victor’s Tavern
Establishments That Line Cooks in Camden Work At
Line Cooks in Camden are employed in a variety of food service environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Tend to offer steady hours with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often have faster-paced environments with slightly lower pay.
- Fine Dining or Upscale Restaurants: Generally pay more and may require specialized skills but offer better benefits and tips indirectly through profit sharing.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: Can provide stable employment and opportunities for advancement.
The nature of the establishment significantly impacts the Line Cook’s work conditions and salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Camden for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in similar roles to Line Cook, here are a few careers worth considering:
These include positions such as Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which share overlapping responsibilities and skills with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Camden
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and taxation to ensure compliance and protect their rights: