Line Cook Salary in Corpus Christi, TX
Line Cooks in Corpus Christi, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $14.29 per hour, which translates to about $571.60 per week, $2,476.93 per month, and $29,723.20 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks in Corpus Christi is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding and healthy market for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Corpus Christi, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Corpus Christi varies based on experience and employer, but below is an overview categorized by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.57 | $462.80 | $1,999.47 | $23,993.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.29 | $571.60 | $2,476.93 | $29,723.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.65 | $706.00 | $3,041.33 | $36,752.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Corpus Christi Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly, as tips mostly go to front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders. Their compensation primarily comes from their regular wages.
Line Cook Salary in Corpus Christi vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks make about $14.29 per hour, with an annual income around $29,723.20.
Line Cooks in Corpus Christi earn on par with the national hourly average of $14.29 and an annual salary that matches the national figure as well.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Corpus Christi for Line Cooks
When exploring nearby areas, pay rates for Line Cooks differ somewhat:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Side: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in the South Side area can expect notably higher hourly wages compared to other parts of Corpus Christi.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Corpus Christi?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Corpus Christi:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks typically command higher pay due to their skill level and efficiency.
- Skillset: Expertise in various cooking techniques or cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants tend to offer better salaries than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or overtime hours may come with higher wages or bonuses.
- Local Demand: In areas with high demand for culinary staff, salaries tend to be boosted.
How To Become a Line Cook in Corpus Christi
Launching a career as a Line Cook in Corpus Christi involves several important steps and educational paths:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Del Mar College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program in Corpus Christi, TX, providing practical and theoretical culinary education.
- Hospitality and Culinary Management: Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi provides a program combining culinary skills with management knowledge, ideal for aspiring cooks.
- Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, nationally recognized, is often required to ensure food safety compliance.
- Alcohol Handling: Some establishments require the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification for staff handling alcoholic beverages.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles is key to developing practical skills and advancing.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Corpus Christi
Some well-known employers seeking Line Cooks in Corpus Christi include:
- P.F. Chang's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Saltgrass Steakhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Corpus Christi Work At
Line Cooks commonly work across a variety of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate pay and steady work with a focus on diverse menus.
- Fast Casual Chains: Provide quicker-paced kitchens with structured pay scales, often entry-level friendly.
- Fine Dining Venues: Typically offer the highest salaries due to skill requirements and service standards.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: May provide opportunities for advancement and better benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence a Line Cook’s salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Corpus Christi for Line Cooks
If you're considering career options related to being a Line Cook, here are some similar roles worth exploring:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, offering related but distinct career paths in the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Corpus Christi
Understanding local and federal labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Line Cooks to ensure workplace rights and financial compliance.
- Review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website for minimum wage, overtime, and workplace standards.
- Consult Texas state workforce information on labor regulations at the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- Find local employment resources and regulations through the City of Corpus Christi official website.