Line Cook Salary in Cedar Rapids, IA
Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.90 per hour, which translates to about $636.00 per week, $2,756.00 per month, and $33,072.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for culinary professionals in this region to meet restaurant and hospitality industry demands.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Cedar Rapids, IA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Cedar Rapids can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.46 | $538.40 | $2,329.07 | $27,980.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.90 | $636.00 | $2,754.00 | $33,072.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.79 | $751.60 | $3,253.73 | $39,083.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation is usually based on hourly wages or salaries, rather than tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Cedar Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids earn slightly more, at approximately $15.90 per hour and $33,072 annually.
This difference reflects local market conditions and the cost of living in Cedar Rapids relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cedar Rapids for Line Cooks
In areas close to Cedar Rapids, Line Cook salaries show some variation:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Czech Village: $17.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Czech Village may find higher hourly wages compared to those in Downtown, likely due to differences in restaurant types and demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Cedar Rapids?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Line Cook in Cedar Rapids. Understanding these can help individuals maximize their earnings.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills, such as proficiency in specific cooking techniques or cuisines, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or specialty restaurants often pay better than casual or fast-food establishments.
- Certifications: Holding relevant certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or being a Certified Culinarian can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials or overtime pay that increase earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional demand for culinary staff and the overall cost of living in Cedar Rapids can affect salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Cedar Rapids
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Cedar Rapids is achievable through several pathways and certifications.
- Education and Training Programs: Enrolling in culinary programs such as the Kirkwood Community College Culinary Arts Program provides foundational cooking skills and industry knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Certification is often required by employers and demonstrates knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Professional Certification: Pursuing credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can improve qualifications and career advancement.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Line Cooks start by working in entry-level kitchen positions to gain practical experience and improve their skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids has a variety of dining establishments actively hiring Line Cooks, including well-known restaurant chains such as:
- Applebee's
- Red Robin
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids Work At
Line Cooks can find employment in a range of establishments, each influencing salary and job experience differently.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide moderate wages with potential for tips for front-of-house staff, but primarily hourly pay for kitchen staff.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer steady hours and hourly wages but less opportunity for salary growth compared to full-service dining.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Often pay higher wages and may value culinary skills more, offering advancement opportunities.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can provide stable employment and potentially higher pay depending on the size and prestige of the operation.
The nature of the establishment strongly impacts a Line Cook’s earning potential and career progression.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cedar Rapids for Line Cooks
Individuals interested in roles similar to Line Cook might consider other culinary and hospitality jobs that share related skills and duties.
These include Chef de Partie, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook positions, which involve culinary preparation and food service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids
Line Cooks in Cedar Rapids should be informed about the applicable labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on workplace rights and employer responsibilities.
- The State of Iowa's official website provides details on state-specific labor laws, including minimum wage and workplace safety.
- For local government ordinances and services, see the City of Cedar Rapids' official website.