Line Cook Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.58 per hour, which translates to about $743.20 per week, $3,220.53 per month, and $38,646.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fort Lauderdale varies depending on experience, skillset, and employer. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| 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) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than customer-facing, so their income mostly depends on their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.58 per hour, or about $38,646.40 per year.
In comparison, Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale earn similarly, aligning closely with the national average for hourly and yearly wages.
This parity suggests that Fort Lauderdale offers competitive pay rates reflecting typical industry standards and local living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Line Cooks
Nearby areas around Fort Lauderdale offer varying salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: $20.00 per hour
- Las Olas: $19.00 per hour
The Downtown Fort Lauderdale area provides the highest hourly wages for Line Cooks, with opportunities for better compensation compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Fort Lauderdale:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks command higher pay due to refined culinary skills and efficiency.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels typically pay more compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in specific cuisines or kitchen techniques can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend work may include additional compensation.
- Local Demand: Fort Lauderdale's active culinary scene can drive competition for skilled Line Cooks, influencing wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fort Lauderdale
Becoming a successful Line Cook requires dedication and sometimes formal training. Here are key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Broward College Culinary Arts Program offers practical hands-on training essential for beginners.
- Attend Specialized Culinary Schools: The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Culinary Program provides education focusing on kitchen management and contemporary cooking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Programs like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are important for understanding safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs or apprenticeships help build skills and advance in the culinary field.
- Earn Professional Credentials: Becoming a Certified Culinarian (CC) through the American Culinary Federation indicates fundamental culinary expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale
Many reputable employers in Fort Lauderdale seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- J. Alexander's Restaurants
- Lauderdale Yacht Club
- Moxies
- Four Seasons
- Tommy Bahama
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale are found in a variety of culinary settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work and moderate wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Often offer higher salaries and require advanced skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Opportunities here can include benefits and higher pay due to the scale and prestige.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: May have more predictable hours but lower pay scales.
The type and quality of the establishment significantly influence the salaries of Line Cooks in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Line Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to Line Cook, consider these similar roles which offer overlapping skills and opportunities:
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef, which involve similar culinary responsibilities and can help broaden career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fort Lauderdale
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements. Helpful official resources include:
- For federal labor regulations visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Florida-specific labor laws and employment resources are available on the official State of Florida website.
- The City of Fort Lauderdale's official website provides local information and employment resources.