Line Cook in Chesapeake, VA
Line Cooks in Chesapeake, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.57 per hour, which translates to about $662.80 per week, $2,872.13 per month, and $34,465.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Chesapeake is growing at a steady 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Chesapeake, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Chesapeake varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.04 | $561.60 | $2,427.20 | $29,203.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.57 | $662.80 | $2,872.13 | $34,465.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.93 | $837.20 | $3,617.87 | $43,534.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Chesapeake Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Chesapeake vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn approximately $17.14 per hour, amounting to about $35,651.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Chesapeake make slightly less at $16.57 per hour and $34,465.60 per year, reflecting regional wage differences and the local cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chesapeake for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Greenbrier: $17.50 per hour
- Great Bridge: $18.00 per hour
Working in Great Bridge offers one of the highest paying opportunities nearby for Line Cooks, potentially increasing earnings modestly compared to Chesapeake.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Chesapeake?
Several factors impact the earnings of a Line Cook in Chesapeake:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with refined culinary skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual or fast food eateries.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in particular cuisines or kitchen stations can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may offer shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing culinary certificates or food safety credentials can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Chesapeake
Becoming a Line Cook in Chesapeake involves gaining both education and practical skills:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts with hands-on training.
- Consider ECPI University's Culinary Institute of Virginia: Located nearby in Norfolk, this school offers an Associate degree with a focus on modern cooking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and Certified Culinarian (CC) are valuable.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships help build skills and professional contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Chesapeake
Prominent employers in Chesapeake looking for qualified Line Cooks include:
- P.F. Chang's
- McDonald's
- Olive Garden
- Outback Steakhouse
- Chili's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Chesapeake Work At
Line Cooks commonly find employment in a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with varied menus offering opportunities to develop culinary techniques.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food Chains: Typically provide entry-level opportunities with lower pay but steady work hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and offer benefits in addition to cooking duties.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: May offer variable hours but higher rates for event-based cooking.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with upscale locations paying more due to higher skill requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chesapeake for Line Cooks
If you're interested in similar roles in the hospitality industry, consider these related careers:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie roles, each offering distinct responsibilities and salary ranges in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Chesapeake
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax requirements at multiple levels:
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia state-specific regulations and resources are available at the official Virginia website.
- Local information for Chesapeake workers can be found on the City of Chesapeake's official website.