Line Cook Salary in Clearwater, FL
Line Cooks in Clearwater, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.34 per hour, which translates to about $613.60 per week, $2,658.93 per month, and $31,907.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Clearwater is growing steadily by about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Clearwater, FL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Clearwater can vary based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.34 | $613.60 | $2,658.93 | $31,907.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Clearwater Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come from their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Clearwater, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Clearwater earn slightly more, at about $15.34 per hour and $31,907.20 annually. This could be a reflection of regional demands and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clearwater for Line Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Line Cooks include:
- Clearwater Beach: $17.50 per hour
- Dunedin: $17.00 per hour
These areas offer higher wages likely due to a concentration of tourism and upscale dining establishments increasing demand and pay rates.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Clearwater?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Clearwater:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks tend to earn higher wages due to proficiency and efficiency in the kitchen.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts often pays better than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certification and Training: Culinary certifications or completion of professional courses can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or holiday shifts may offer additional pay or premiums.
- Local Demand: High tourist traffic and a busy restaurant scene in the Clearwater area can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Clearwater
Becoming a Line Cook in Clearwater involves several steps to build relevant skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality at Pinellas Technical College provide extensive food preparation, restaurant operations, and hospitality training, including ServSafe® certification.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at St. Petersburg College offers associate degrees and certificates focusing on practical culinary skills, ideal for aspiring Line Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe® ensure proper food handling knowledge, a crucial requirement for kitchen roles.
- Consider Industry Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC)® credential from the American Culinary Federation establishes baseline culinary competencies.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in fast-paced kitchens.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Clearwater
Some of the notable employers looking for skilled Line Cooks in Clearwater include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Lobster
- Chili's
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Countryside Country Club
Establishments That Line Cooks in Clearwater Work At
Line Cooks in Clearwater find work across various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These often have steady work hours but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual-Dining: Typically faster-paced environments requiring quick service and multitasking skills.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: These establishments usually offer higher wages and require more refined culinary skills.
- Catering and Country Clubs: Often pay well and provide opportunities for event-based cooking experiences.
The type of establishment directly impacts the salary, with fine dining and upscale resorts generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clearwater for Line Cooks
For those considering similar roles within the hospitality and culinary industry, here are a few related jobs:
This includes Cook, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, all of which share similar skill sets and responsibilities in kitchen environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Clearwater
Line Cooks should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities as employees:
- Find federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Explore State of Florida Official Portal for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- Access local employment information on the Pinellas County Government site.