Line Cook Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Line Cooks in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $19.02 per hour, which translates to about $760.80 per week, $3,296.80 per month, and $39,561.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fort Lee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook and increasing opportunities in the foodservice industry in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fort Lee can vary depending on experience level and employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience.
| 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) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes and not focused on direct customer service. Their compensation mostly consists of hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Fort Lee earn slightly more at about $19.02 per hour and $39,561.60 annually. This difference reflects local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Line Cooks
Nearby areas also offer competitive pay for Line Cooks:
- Hackensack: $20.00 per hour
- Oradell: $23.00 per hour
Line Cooks considering commuting to Oradell can expect higher wages, while Hackensack also offers above-average pay.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fort Lee?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Fort Lee:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks or those with specialized culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Certification and Training: Completion of food safety or culinary programs can boost earning potential.
- Shift Times: Evening or holiday shifts may come with shift differentials increasing overall pay.
- Local Market Demand: Fort Lee’s restaurant industry growth can lead to higher salaries due to competitive hiring.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fort Lee
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Fort Lee, consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs like the Bergen County Technical High School Culinology Program offer comprehensive culinary and food science education, providing an excellent foundation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers for Line Cook positions.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Line Cooks start as kitchen assistants or prep cooks to build skills on the job.
- Apply to Local Restaurants: Fort Lee’s growing dining scene offers many opportunities for entry-level and experienced Line Cooks alike.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fort Lee
Some of the prominent employers currently hiring Line Cooks in Fort Lee include:
- The Hackensack Golf Club
- True Food Kitchen
- Applebee's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fort Lee Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These spots often have steady shifts and competitive hourly pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer fast-paced environments with slightly less pay than full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Golf Clubs: These establishments usually provide higher wages and opportunities for tips or bonuses.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can provide seasonal or event-based work with variable pay.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary levels, with upscale or specialized venues often paying the highest.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Line Cooks
Those interested in roles similar to Line Cook might consider these related positions:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, offering advancement and skill development opportunities in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fort Lee
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements applicable to their employment in Fort Lee and New Jersey.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State labor laws and employment information can be found on the New Jersey Department of Labor website.