Line Cook Salary in Fairfield, CA
Line Cooks in Fairfield, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fairfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fairfield varies depending on experience and the type of employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,680.00 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fairfield Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily in food preparation behind the scenes. Earnings mainly rely on their hourly wage or salary rather than supplemental tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Fairfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160.00 per year.
Comparatively, Line Cooks in Fairfield earn a higher hourly rate of $16.50 per hour and approximately $34,320.00 annually, suggesting better pay relative to the national average, likely influenced by local costs of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Line Cooks
Some nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Fairfield: $17.50 per hour
- Cordelia: $18.00 per hour
Cordelia ranks slightly higher in pay for Line Cooks, which might attract those seeking better compensation close to Fairfield.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fairfield?
Several factors play a key role in determining the salary of a Line Cook in Fairfield:
- Experience Level: More years spent honing culinary skills usually lead to increased pay.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in various cooking techniques or specialized cuisines can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically offer higher wages than fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts can come with additional pay premiums.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications or food safety credentials may enhance job prospects and salary.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fairfield
Prospective Line Cooks can take several steps to launch and advance their careers in Fairfield.
Formal Culinary Education is beneficial. The Culinary Arts Program at Solano Community College offers comprehensive training to develop essential cooking skills.
For more specialized bakery and pastry skills, the Professional Training Program at the San Francisco Baking Institute is a valuable option.
Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers in California to ensure food safety standards.
Additionally, achieving the Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential through the American Culinary Federation can validate culinary skills and increase employability.
Practical Experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen jobs helps in gaining hands-on skills needed for success.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fairfield
Several notable establishments in Fairfield regularly seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Dave & Buster's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Chipotle
- Chevys
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fairfield Work At
Line Cooks in Fairfield typically perform their roles in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide regular shifts with moderate pay and opportunities to learn various cooking styles.
- Fast Casual Eateries: May offer more fast-paced work environments with slightly lower average pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay more due to volume and quality standards.
- Specialty or Fine Dining Restaurants: May command higher salaries but usually require more advanced skills and experience.
Each type of establishment creates differences in salary, working conditions, and chances for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield for Line Cooks
If you're interested in career paths similar to Line Cook, consider roles such as Prep Cook, Cook, and Fry Cook, which share related skills and responsibilities but may vary in pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fairfield
Line Cooks in Fairfield must navigate both federal and state labor laws as well as local regulations concerning wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations offers resources specific to state labor laws and workplace standards.
- Local employment resources can be found on Solano County's official website, providing guidance on regulations and community services.