Line Cook Salary in Edison, NJ
Line Cooks in Edison, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.47 per hour, which translates to about $738.80 per week, $3,201.47 per month, and $38,417.60 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Edison shows a positive growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Edison, NJ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Edison depends on experience and job level, but here is a breakdown of earnings by experience:
| 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) | $18.47 | $738.80 | $3,198.67 | $38,417.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Edison Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily in the kitchen and have limited direct interaction with customers. Their compensation is usually through wages or salary alone.
Line Cook Salary in Edison vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.65 per hour, which comes to around $36,712 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Edison, NJ, earn slightly higher wages of around $18.47 per hour and $38,417.60 annually, reflecting the local market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Edison for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Metuchen: $19.00 per hour
- Woodbridge: $18.50 per hour
Metuchen offers a slightly higher hourly wage compared to Woodbridge, making it a competitive market close to Edison.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Edison?
The salary of a Line Cook in Edison, NJ, can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks tend to make higher wages due to their refined culinary skills and efficiency.
- Skill Set: Specialized skills such as knowledge of specific cuisines or cooking techniques can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end restaurants or prestigious hotels may yield higher salaries than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift Timings: Night shifts or weekend work can sometimes attract higher pay differential.
- Certification and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety training can positively impact salary offers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Edison
Here are practical steps to start a career as a Line Cook in Edison, NJ:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Middlesex County College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary education to prepare for the role.
- Consider High School Programs: Middlesex County Magnet Schools Culinary Arts Program provides foundational culinary skills for high school students.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation validate essential food safety knowledge and cooking skills.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships to develop practical cooking skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Edison
Some of the top employers currently looking for Line Cooks in Edison include:
- METUCHEN GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
- True Food Kitchen
- Sheraton Edison
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Line Cooks in Edison Work At
Line Cooks in Edison typically find employment opportunities in a variety of establishment types such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments often have steady demand but might offer moderate wages.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Such places tend to pay higher salaries and may provide additional benefits due to their upscale clientele and higher standards.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These roles may offer seasonal or event-driven work that can influence wages and hours.
The type of establishment directly influences salary levels, with upscale venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Edison for Line Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to Line Cook positions, consider exploring the following careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager, which involve greater responsibility and can lead to higher salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Edison
Line Cooks in Edison should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and earnings.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The New Jersey Department of Labor website provides state-specific employment rules and benefits.
- Local resources and community employment information can be found at the Edison, NJ official website.