Line Cook Salary in Chico, CA
Line Cooks in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which translates to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Chico is growing at a healthy rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the culinary industry within the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Chico, CA, varies by experience level and skill, with entry-level and top earners seeing notable differences in pay.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.65 | $786.00 | $3,395.00 | $40,872.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.49 | $899.60 | $3,872.93 | $46,779.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Chico Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen and not customer facing. Their earnings mostly come from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.80 per hour and $39,104.00 per year.
In Chico, the average hourly rate of $18.80 aligns exactly with the national average, reflecting competitive wages in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Line Cooks
Select neighborhoods around Chico show variations in pay for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Chico: $20.00 per hour
- South Chico: $19.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Chico offers the highest pay rates nearby, potentially due to a higher concentration of restaurants and food service establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Chico?
Several key factors can influence the salary of a Line Cook in Chico, CA:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better pay compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts may carry premium pay.
- Local Demand and Economy: The culinary industry's growth in the Chico area also impacts salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Chico
To start a career as a Line Cook in Chico, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Butte College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable hands-on skills and knowledge essential for a Line Cook’s role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Acquiring the California Food Handler Card is typically required to demonstrate proficiency in safe food handling.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles can build the experience needed to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Chico
Several prominent local employers frequently seek skilled Line Cooks:
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
- Logan's Roadhouse
- The Grill at Hotel Diamond
Establishments That Line Cooks in Chico Work At
Line Cooks typically find work in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: These might offer less pay but could have benefits like flexible scheduling.
- Hotel Restaurants: These establishments often pay more due to higher standards and busier environments.
- Breweries and Gastropubs: Places like Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. may offer competitive salaries due to their popularity and volume of business.
The type of establishment significantly influences pay rates and advancement opportunities for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Line Cooks
If you're considering career options similar to the role of Line Cook, here are a few related positions to explore:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie, which share many responsibilities and require similar culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Chico
Line Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities affecting their work and income in California.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations (state labor laws) for standards on wages, breaks, and workplace safety.
- For federal tax guidelines, visit the Internal Revenue Service (federal taxes) website to manage tax filing and obligations properly.