Line Cook Salary in Evanston, IL
Line Cooks in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $780.00 per week, $3,380.00 per month, and $40,560.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Evanston is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the culinary sector in this region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Evanston varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of average earnings:
| 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) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Evanston Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly since their roles focus on food preparation behind the scenes. Most of their income comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which is approximately $30,160 per year. Compared to this, Line Cooks in Evanston earn significantly more at $19.50 per hour and $40,560 annually.
The higher salaries in Evanston reflect local living costs, demand, and the culinary market's competitiveness.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offering higher pay for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown Evanston: $20.00 per hour
- Northwestern University Area: $21.00 per hour
Working in these areas may provide enhanced earning opportunities compared to other parts of Evanston.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Evanston?
The salary of a Line Cook in Evanston is influenced by various factors including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with advanced knife skills or specialties may command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working late shifts or weekends can sometimes lead to shift differentials and increased pay.
- Location: Establishments in high-demand areas or near major institutions often offer higher compensation.
How To Become a Line Cook in Evanston
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Evanston, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program in Chicago or the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program provide practical and theoretical training essential for culinary roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the Food Handler Certification required by Illinois and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are important to demonstrate knowledge of food safety and hygiene.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as a prep cook or in entry-level roles builds necessary skills and opens pathways to line cook positions.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Evanston
Employers in Evanston actively seeking Line Cooks include:
- The Mather
- Best Western
- Red Robin
- Chili's
- Honey Bear
Establishments That Line Cooks in Evanston Work At
Line Cooks are employed across a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer moderate pay but provide steady shifts.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically offer consistent work with competitive hourly rates.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These may pay higher wages and provide additional benefits.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: May offer the highest salaries due to specialized skills and quality standards.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary levels, with upscale and specialized venues providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Line Cooking, consider these similar roles as potential opportunities:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Head Chef, roles that share culinary skills and career progression paths with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Evanston
Line Cooks need to be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their work in Evanston:
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- State-specific employment laws can be accessed via the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Local regulations and services for Evanston workers are available on the City of Evanston official website.