Line Cook Salary in Eugene, OR
Line Cooks in Eugene, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.68 per hour, which translates to about $747.20 per week, $3,237.87 per month, and $38,854.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Eugene is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive job outlook with increasing opportunities in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Eugene, OR?
The salary of a Line Cook in Eugene varies based on experience and employer, but the following provides a general overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.83 | $473.20 | $2,044.53 | $24,534.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.68 | $747.20 | $3,237.87 | $38,854.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.50 | $1,180.00 | $5,116.67 | $61,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Eugene Earn Tips?
Line Cooks may receive some tips depending on the establishment, but typically they earn minimal tips compared to front-of-house staff. Tips might amount to an extra $2 to $5 per hour in some cases, especially in venues where kitchen staff are included in tip pooling.
Line Cook Salary in Eugene, OR vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.19 per hour and approximately $35,755.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Eugene earn slightly more, with an hourly wage of about $18.68 and annual earnings of $38,854.40.
This difference may reflect local demand, cost of living, and the presence of quality culinary establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Eugene for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer these hourly salaries for Line Cooks:
- Area 1: $18.68 per hour
- Area 2: $18.68 per hour
These figures suggest a consistent pay range in surrounding locations near Eugene.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Eugene?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Eugene:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty culinary venues typically pay more than fast casual or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Location: Cooks working in central Eugene or nearby high-demand areas may see better compensation.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications or culinary training can positively affect salary.
How To Become a Line Cook in Eugene
Becoming a successful Line Cook in Eugene involves a few important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Lane Community College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on and theoretical knowledge essential for this role.
- Advanced Skills Development: The Oregon Culinary Institute in Portland offers intensive training beneficial for aspiring Line Cooks seeking to deepen their culinary expertise.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: A Food Handler's Permit is required in Oregon, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification demonstrates proficiency in food safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, even in entry-level positions, builds necessary skills and prepares you for a Line Cook role.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Eugene
Several well-known employers in Eugene actively hire Line Cooks, including:
- P.F. Chang's
- King Estate Winery
- Texas Roadhouse
- Elmer's Restaurants
- IHOP
Establishments That Line Cooks in Eugene Work At
Line Cooks in Eugene find work in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work with slightly lower wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Typically offer higher pay due to greater skill requirements and prestige.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: May provide benefits and opportunities for advancement with competitive pay.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: Can vary widely in pay but offer diverse cooking experiences.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary levels, with higher-end venues generally offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Eugene for Line Cooks
Line Cooking shares similarities with several other hospitality roles, which provide alternative career paths and opportunities for advancement.
These include Head Chef, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Manager positions, covering a range of responsibilities within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Eugene
Line Cooks should be aware of important labor laws and tax obligations applied in Oregon to ensure fair working conditions and proper compliance.
- For state-specific labor laws and regulations visit the State of Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries website.
- National labor laws and worker protections information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.