Line Cook Salary in Fargo, ND
Line Cooks in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $17.77 per hour, which translates to about $710.80 per week, $3,080.13 per month, and $36,961.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fargo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and market growth in the foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fargo depends on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.71 | $588.40 | $2,539.73 | $30,596.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.89 | $675.60 | $2,917.20 | $35,107.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.40 | $776.00 | $3,352.67 | $40,352.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fargo Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips, as their work primarily takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income usually comes from their wages alone.
Line Cook Salary in Fargo vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn around $18.02 per hour, which adds up to approximately $37,481.60 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Fargo earn slightly less, at about $17.77 per hour and $36,961.60 annually. This difference can be influenced by local economic factors and the cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Line Cooks
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Line Cooks:
- West Fargo: $17.71 per hour
- Grand Forks: $17.38 per hour
While these areas offer salaries close to Fargo’s rates, slight variations may reflect local employer conditions and demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fargo?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Line Cook in Fargo:
- Experience: More seasoned Line Cooks earn higher wages as they develop culinary skills and kitchen efficiency.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines or cooking techniques can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often offer higher wages compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Local Market Demand: Regional growth in the hospitality sector can drive salary increases.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fargo
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Fargo can be straightforward with the right preparation and qualifications.
Consider enrolling in culinary education programs such as the North Dakota State College of Science Culinary Arts Program or the Minnesota State Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which provide practical training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
Obtaining certifications can improve your employment prospects and salary potential. Notable certifications for Line Cooks include the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which ensures knowledge of food safety, and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation, validating professional competence.
Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles is essential to develop skills and advance in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fargo
If you are looking to work as a Line Cook in Fargo, consider these well-known employers with ongoing job opportunities:
- BernBaum's
- Chili's
- Paradiso
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fargo Work At
Line Cooks find work in various types of foodservice establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Common workplaces providing steady hours, typically with moderate pay.
- Full-Service Restaurants: Often offer higher wages and opportunities for creative cooking skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: These may provide greater benefits and pay, especially for those with advanced skills.
- Catering Services: Dynamic environment with varying pay depending on event size and complexity.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Line Cook’s salary due to differences in clientele, cuisine complexity, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in roles closely related to Line Cook, consider these similar careers that might appeal to you:
This includes roles such as Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, which share culinary responsibilities and skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fargo
Line Cooks in Fargo should understand applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Check local employment standards and wage rules on the City of Fargo official website.
- State labor laws and workforce regulations are detailed on the State of North Dakota official website.
- Federal labor standards, including overtime and minimum wage laws, are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.