Line Cook Salary in Columbia, SC
Line Cooks in Columbia, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.70 per hour, which breaks down to about $628.00 per week, $2,721.33 per month, and $32,656.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Columbia is positive, with an expected growth rate of 5% per year, indicating solid demand in the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Columbia, SC?
The salary for a Line Cook in Columbia varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides a good reference for typical hourly and annual wages based on skill level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.23 | $489.20 | $2,115.33 | $25,398.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.70 | $628.00 | $2,721.33 | $32,656.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.15 | $806.00 | $3,480.67 | $41,912.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Columbia Earn Tips?
Generally, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their work mainly takes place in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings mostly come from wages or salaries provided by the establishment.
Line Cook Salary in Columbia, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average hourly wage of approximately $18.00 and a yearly salary near $37,440.
Compared to these figures, Columbia Line Cooks earn a bit less on average, with $15.70 per hour and $32,656 annually, reflecting local wage scales and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Line Cooks
Some neighborhoods around Columbia offer higher pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.08 per hour
- Forest Acres: $17.59 per hour
Considering roles in these areas may provide better earning opportunities compared to central Columbia.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Columbia?
The salary of a Line Cook in Columbia can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Experience and Skills: Cooks with more experience and diverse cooking techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast-food establishments.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials boosting earnings.
- Certifications: Culinary certificates or food safety training can increase hiring chances and pay rate.
- Local Demand: Areas with a strong hospitality sector may offer more competitive salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Columbia
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Columbia generally involves several practical steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs like the Midlands Technical College Culinary Arts Program that provide practical, hands-on experience in professional kitchens.
- Acquire Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure adherence to health standards.
- Obtain Hospitality Education: Educational pathways like the University of South Carolina Hospitality Management Program can provide a broader understanding of the food service industry.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships help develop the necessary skills for line cooking.
- Professional Certification: Pursuing certifications through organizations like the American Culinary Federation can enhance credentials and earnings potential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Columbia
Some notable local employers hiring skilled Line Cooks include:
- Homegrown Hospitality Group
- Hall Management Group
- FOREST LAKE CLUB
Establishments That Line Cooks in Columbia Work At
Line Cooks typically work across a range of dining establishments. These can include:
- Casual Dining: Often offers consistent work hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual: May involve faster-paced shifts with standard wages.
- Fine Dining: Usually provides higher pay reflecting the skill and precision required.
- Hotels and Catering: Can offer diverse culinary experiences and competitive compensation.
The type of establishment strongly impacts the salary and opportunities for advancement available.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia for Line Cooks
For those interested in roles related to Line Cooking, consider these similar careers that often share culinary skills and responsibilities:
This includes positions like Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef, which have overlapping skills and career pathways with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Columbia
Line Cooks should be informed of the labor laws and tax regulations that govern their employment:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor for national labor standards and worker rights.
- Refer to the Official South Carolina government website for state-specific labor laws, minimum wage rules, and tax information.