Line Cook Salary in Dayton, OH
Line Cooks in Dayton, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Dayton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for culinary professionals in the region's foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Line Cook in Dayton can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Dayton Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in the kitchen preparing food rather than direct customer interaction. Earnings are mainly from their wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, translating to about $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Dayton earn slightly higher wages at about $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Line Cooks
Nearby areas can offer varying pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Dayton: $19.00 per hour
- Beavercreek: $18.50 per hour
Area differences can be due to cost of living and demand in specific locations close to Dayton.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors contribute to the salary range for Line Cooks in Dayton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks and those with specialized culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels tend to offer higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Having food safety certifications or culinary training can positively affect pay rates.
- Local Economic Factors: Cost of living and regional competition can impact wage levels in Dayton and nearby areas.
How To Become a Line Cook in Dayton
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Dayton involves several important steps:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Joining programs like the Culinary Club of the University of Dayton can provide hands-on learning and skill development under expert guidance.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices and are often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or in other entry-level culinary positions helps build necessary skills.
- Develop Culinary Techniques: Practicing knife skills, cooking methods, and kitchen organization improves job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Dayton
Some of the notable employers recruiting Line Cooks in Dayton include:
- P.F. Chang's
- Sueno
- Marriott International
Establishments That Line Cooks in Dayton Work At
Line Cooks commonly find employment in a variety of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer consistent work but generally moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often requiring fast-paced food preparation with slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end venues tend to pay better and may offer benefits and advancement opportunities.
- Catering Companies: These offer diverse work opportunities which can impact earnings positively depending on clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence the salary of Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Line Cooks
If you are interested in the culinary field, several related roles offer similar skills and career paths:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which involve similar culinary skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Dayton
Line Cooks should be familiar with the appropriate labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and ensure compliance:
- For federal employment laws, workers can visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- State-specific employment information is available on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.