Line Cook Salary in Edinburg, TX
Line Cooks in Edinburg, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $10.74 per hour, which translates to about $429.60 per week, $1,861.60 per month, and $22,339.20 per year.
The employment outlook for Line Cooks in Edinburg is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary workers in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Edinburg, TX?
Line Cook salaries in Edinburg vary by experience level and specific skills. Here is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly salaries at different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.12 | $364.80 | $1,574.40 | $18,937.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.74 | $429.60 | $1,861.60 | $22,339.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.66 | $506.40 | $2,195.20 | $26,332.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Edinburg Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly since they work primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mainly comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Edinburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.02 per hour, translating to about $37,481.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Edinburg earn significantly less, at approximately $10.74 per hour and $22,339.20 annually. This difference reflects regional variations in cost of living and local labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Edinburg for Line Cooks
The following nearby cities offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Weslaco: $13.27 per hour
- Mercedes: $13.24 per hour
These locations provide better pay potential, possibly due to demand levels and local economic factors.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Edinburg?
Several factors impact the salary a Line Cook might earn in Edinburg:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Line Cooks who master various cooking techniques often command higher wages.
- Skills: Proficiency in specific cuisines or culinary equipment can increase value to employers.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally pay more than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays might lead to shift differentials or bonuses.
- Education and Certification: Completion of culinary programs or food safety certifications may improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Edinburg
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Edinburg involves several practical steps and educational opportunities.
First, consider enrolling in culinary programs such as the South Texas College Culinary Arts Program or the Texas State Technical College Culinary Arts Program. These programs provide hands-on training and essential cooking knowledge.
Additionally, earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often a prerequisite for food service jobs and demonstrates your commitment to safety and quality.
The Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential offered by the American Culinary Federation can further validate your culinary skills, enhancing job opportunities and career advancement.
Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level kitchen roles will also build your resume and skillset.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Edinburg
Edinburg has many restaurants and food service businesses looking for qualified Line Cooks. Leading employers include:
- Chili's
- IHOP
- Applebee's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Edinburg Work At
Line Cooks can find employment in a range of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These typically offer steady hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally, the pace is faster, and wages might be slightly lower but can provide more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger kitchens often provide better pay and benefits.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as schools or hospitals with consistent demand but varying pay scales.
Each type of establishment offers different salary potentials and work environments, affecting overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Edinburg for Line Cooks
If you're considering careers related to being a Line Cook, here are a few options:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Cook positions - jobs sharing similar kitchen responsibilities and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Edinburg
Line Cooks should be aware of key labor laws and tax policies applicable in Edinburg, TX, to protect their rights and manage their finances.
- You can review federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific workforce and labor information relevant to Texas, visit the Texas Workforce Commission.
- The official Edinburg city website provides local regulations and resources that may affect Line Cooks.