Line Cook Salary in Durham, NC
Line Cooks in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $16.77 per hour, which translates to about $670.80 per week, $2,906.80 per month, and $34,881.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Line Cook in Durham varies based on experience and skill, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.79 | $551.60 | $2,386.13 | $28,563.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.77 | $670.80 | $2,906.80 | $34,881.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.39 | $815.60 | $3,521.87 | $42,411.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Durham Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their role is mostly in the kitchen rather than customer-facing. However, salaries may sometimes be supplemented by some tip-sharing policies depending on the establishment.
Line Cook Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.83 per hour, which translates to roughly $37,086.40 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Durham earn slightly less, averaging $16.77 per hour and $34,881.60 annually, reflecting regional cost-of-living and market differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Line Cooks
Line Cooks working near Durham may find higher wages in these locations:
- Research Triangle Park: $19.00 per hour
- Downtown Durham: $18.50 per hour
These nearby areas offer competitive compensation, encouraging Line Cooks to explore employment opportunities beyond Durham proper.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors impact a Line Cook’s salary in Durham:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels tend to pay more than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Hours: Evening, night, or weekend shifts may include higher pay rates or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or culinary education can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic growth and culinary trends in Durham influence salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Durham
Getting started as a Line Cook in Durham can be accomplished through these steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Consider programs like the Culinary Arts Certificate at Durham Technical Community College, which covers culinary fundamentals, baking, and restaurant management, preparing students for entry-level roles.
- Focus on Management Skills: For advancement, the Culinary Arts - Restaurant Management Certificate at Durham Technical Community College offers training in cost control, customer service, and HR management, suitable for Line Cooks aspiring to supervisory roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
- Enhance Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can improve employability and earning potential by validating culinary skills.
- Gain Experience: Hands-on experience in kitchens, internships, or entry-level cooking positions is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Durham
Durham’s food scene features several prominent employers seeking skilled Line Cooks:
- KickBack Jacks
- Nordstrom
- P.F. Chang's
- Dashi
- FLIK Hospitality Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Durham Work At
Line Cooks in Durham find work in various types of establishments, affecting their salary and work environment.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and moderate pay, suitable for many Line Cooks.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide consistent hours and slightly lower wages but with opportunities for tips in some cases.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically offer higher wages and require greater skill and experience.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Can provide higher salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for growth.
The type of establishment influences shifts, skill requirements, and compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Line Cooks
If you are considering careers related to being a Line Cook, here are some options with similar skills and responsibilities:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie—roles sharing culinary expertise and responsibilities in the kitchen.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Durham
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their work in Durham.
- For federal employment standards and labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor website offers detailed information on state-specific labor laws and workplace safety.
- The City of Durham official website provides local employment resources and regulations.