Line Cook Salary in El Monte, CA
Line Cooks in El Monte, CA, 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 El Monte is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in El Monte, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in El Monte varies by experience, with entry-level cooks earning less and top earners at the higher end of the pay scale. Below is a breakdown of typical wages by experience level.
| 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) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Line Cooks in El Monte Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly comes from wages and salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in El Monte vs. National Average
Nationally, the average Line Cook earns about $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in El Monte earn a higher hourly pay of $18.00, with annual salaries about $37,440.00, reflecting the local market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Monte for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown El Monte: $19.00 per hour
- North El Monte: $18.50 per hour
Working in Downtown El Monte generally provides the highest pay among these options, offering an advantage for Line Cooks seeking better wages.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in El Monte?
Several factors can affect a Line Cook's salary in El Monte, including:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks command higher wages due to proficiency and efficiency.
- Skills: Specialized culinary skills or working with particular cuisines can raise pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening, late night, or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials, increasing earnings.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and certifications such as ServSafe can improve job prospects and wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in El Monte
Starting a career as a Line Cook in El Monte involves several important steps:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Local programs like the Arroyo High School Culinary Arts Program provide foundational training combined with skill certification.
- Take Dual Enrollment Courses: Rio Hondo College partners with Arroyo High School to offer college credits in culinary studies, accelerating skill acquisition.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are crucial for complying with food safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions, apprenticeships, or internships allow building hands-on skills essential for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in El Monte
Some of the notable employers actively looking for Line Cooks in El Monte include:
- Valley View Post Acute
- Yama Seafood
- Wingstop
Establishments That Line Cooks in El Monte Work At
Line Cooks are found across a range of foodservice establishments, each affecting salary potential differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Common employers with moderate wages and opportunities for tips at some locations.
- Fast Casual: Often offer consistent schedules but slightly lower wages compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining: Pays higher wages and potential for advancement, but demands higher skill levels.
- Catering and Banquets: Provide varied work environments with possible higher pay during busy seasons.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Monte for Line Cooks
If you're exploring career options related to Line Cook, consider these similar roles, which may offer different challenges and pay scales:
These include roles such as Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager, which build upon culinary skills and leadership experience.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in El Monte
Line Cooks in El Monte should be aware of several important labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- California state labor laws and regulations are detailed by the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Employment services and state tax information are available through the California Employment Development Department.
- Federal labor regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.