Line Cook Salary in Cicero, IL
Line Cooks in Cicero, IL, in 2025, typically earn around $17.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Cicero is positive with a 5% annual growth rate, indicating a growing demand for culinary professionals in the area each year.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Cicero, IL?
The salary for a Line Cook in Cicero, IL, can vary depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical salaries at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Cicero Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their work is focused in the kitchen away from direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on hourly wages alone, without tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Cicero, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for a Line Cook is around $14.50, amounting to about $30,160.00 annually.
Line Cooks in Cicero earn higher than the national average, at approximately $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually, which suggests favorable local demand and wage standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cicero for Line Cooks
If you’re considering nearby neighborhoods, the highest salaries for Line Cooks are found in:
- Downtown Cicero: $21.00 per hour
- West Cicero: $19.00 per hour
These areas may offer higher wages due to the type of restaurants and dining establishments located there.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Cicero?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Cicero:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks command higher wages through proven culinary skills.
- Skill Level: Expertise in different cuisines or specific cooking techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or busy restaurants usually results in higher salaries compared to fast-food chains or casual eateries.
- Certifications: Certifications, such as food safety or culinary training, may enhance salary prospects.
- Shift Times: Line Cooks working night or weekend shifts might receive shift differentials that boost wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Cicero
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Cicero involves several actionable steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Attending a culinary program can build foundational skills. For example, Scott Community College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program focusing on cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required, educating on safe food handling and sanitation best practices.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles, such as kitchen helper or prep cook, enables building practical cooking experience.
- Develop Good Work Habits: Reliability, teamwork, and speed are important qualities valued by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Cicero
Some of the major employers hiring Line Cooks in Cicero include:
- Punch Bowl Social
- Portillo's
- Pizza Hut
Establishments That Line Cooks in Cicero Work At
Line Cooks in Cicero typically find roles in various dining establishments such as:
- Casual restaurants: Often have steady shifts and moderate pay.
- Fast casual dining: Usually involve faster service pace and moderate pay rates.
- Fine dining or upscale restaurants: May offer higher salaries due to complexity and prestige.
- Chain restaurants and franchises: Provide stable employment, though pay may vary.
The type of establishment affects salary levels, with fine dining generally paying the most and fast casual offering the least.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cicero for Line Cooks
For those interested in careers similar to Line Cooking, consider related roles that share culinary skills and kitchen environments.
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, all of which involve culinary preparation and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Cicero
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on minimum wage, overtime, and worker protections.
- For Illinois-specific labor laws and employment guidelines, consult the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security website.