Line Cook Salary in Elgin, IL
Line Cooks in Elgin, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.05 per hour, which translates to about $722.00 per week, $3,128.67 per month, and $37,544.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Elgin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Elgin, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Elgin depends on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of expected earnings at various stages of a Line Cook's career.
| 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) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Elgin Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role is primarily kitchen-based and does not involve direct interaction with customers. Their earnings generally come from their hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Elgin vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Elgin earn a higher wage at approximately $18.05 per hour and $37,544 annually.
This higher salary in Elgin may be attributed to local demand for culinary professionals and the cost of living considerations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elgin for Line Cooks
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Elgin: $19.00 per hour
- South Elgin: $18.50 per hour
Those employed in Downtown Elgin generally experience the highest hourly wages in the region for this position.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Elgin?
Several factors impact the salary level of a Line Cook in Elgin:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Line Cooks tend to earn higher wages and may qualify for supervisory roles.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast casual or smaller diners.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials that enhance earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety credentials can increase salary potential.
- Local Economic Factors: Competition and demand within Elgin's foodservice industry influence wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Elgin
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Elgin, consider these steps:
- Gain Foundational Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Elgin Community College provide broad training in cooking fundamentals and kitchen management, helpful for Line Cooks.
- Specialize if Desired: The Pastry Arts Certificate at Elgin Community College is useful for those interested in baking or dessert preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications such as ServSafe Food Manager Certification help ensure compliance with health standards.
- Earn Additional Credentials: Certifications like Responsible Alcohol Service Certification may be beneficial when working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in local kitchens, restaurants, or even student-run establishments like the Spartan Terrace Restaurant at Elgin Community College provides valuable hands-on learning.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Elgin
Some prominent employers looking for Line Cooks in Elgin include:
- IHOP
- Applebee's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Robin
- Elgin Public House
Establishments That Line Cooks in Elgin Work At
Line Cooks in Elgin typically work at a variety of food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady schedules but generally pay moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Fast-paced, often with lower wages but opportunities for quick advancement.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These can provide higher pay due to more specialized culinary skills and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often offer better benefits and opportunities for growth.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in earning potential, with fine dining and high-end hotels generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elgin for Line Cooks
If you are exploring jobs similar to that of a Line Cook, consider related roles in the hospitality field:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook — roles that share many culinary skills and responsibilities with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Elgin
Understanding local and federal labor laws is important for Line Cooks to ensure fair treatment and compliance with employment standards.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal guidelines.
- Check the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security website for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- For city-specific regulations and resources, go to the Local government website for Elgin.