Line Cook Salary in Detroit, MI
Line Cooks in Detroit, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.31 per hour, which translates to about $732.40 per week, $3,173.73 per month, and $38,084.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Detroit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expansion within the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Detroit, MI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Detroit varies depending on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.14 | $605.60 | $2,626.93 | $31,475.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.31 | $732.40 | $3,173.73 | $38,084.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.15 | $886.00 | $3,844.67 | $46,072.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Detroit Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their role is primarily kitchen-based, supporting food preparation rather than customer service. Their earnings generally come from their wage or salary exclusively.
Line Cook Salary in Detroit vs. National Average
The national average for Line Cooks is approximately $18.31 per hour or about $38,084.80 annually.
Line Cooks in Detroit earn around the national average, reflecting competitive local wages aligned with broader industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Detroit for Line Cooks
Looking near Detroit, these areas offer higher salaries for Line Cooks:
- Birmingham: $36.34 per hour
- Novi: $36.06 per hour
These nearby cities offer substantially higher pay, which might attract experienced Line Cooks seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Detroit?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook makes in Detroit:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Line Cooks tend to earn higher wages due to their efficiency and skill level.
- Skills and Specializations: Specialized culinary skills or the ability to work multiple stations can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast casual or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays might include shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training or certifications can enhance salary potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in Detroit
To begin a career as a Line Cook in Detroit, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like the Detroit Institute of Gastronomy offer online apprenticeship programs culminating in certificates, diplomas, or an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts.
- Consider Community College Training: Wayne County Community College District provides foundational culinary education with certificates tailored for food service workers and chefs.
- Obtain Certifications: Entry-level certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation demonstrate foundational culinary skills.
- Secure Food Safety Credentials: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety practices often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships, apprenticeships, or starter positions in kitchens help develop skills and build a professional reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Detroit
Detroit features several notable restaurants actively seeking skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Selden Standard
- SheWolf
- Lady of the House
Establishments That Line Cooks in Detroit Work At
Line Cooks in Detroit typically work across a variety of dining establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: Often a starting point, these establishments offer moderate pay but ample opportunity to develop skills.
- Fast Casual Chains: Emphasize speed and consistency, usually with standardized pay rates.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These venues pay higher wages reflecting the complexity and skill required in meal preparation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale operations often provide better pay and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally offering the highest compensation due to expertise and presentation demands.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Detroit for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Line Cook, consider these similar roles that often require culinary skills and kitchen experience:
These include Chef de Partie, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook positions, each offering a distinct pathway within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Detroit
As a Line Cook in Detroit, it's important to be informed about both federal and state labor regulations.
- Review Michigan's labor laws and employment regulations on the Michigan official state website.
- Consult federal labor standards through the U.S. Department of Labor for employment rights, wage requirements, and workplace safety information.