Line Cook Salary in Fort Worth, TX
Line Cooks in Fort Worth, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $16.65 per hour, which translates to about $666.00 per week, $2,886.00 per month, and $34,632.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fort Worth is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fort Worth, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fort Worth varies by experience level and employer, but here is a typical breakdown of earnings across different stages in the role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.43 | $537.20 | $2,324.80 | $27,894.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.65 | $666.00 | $2,886.00 | $34,632.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.65 | $826.00 | $3,565.33 | $42,952.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fort Worth Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their income mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Fort Worth vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.10 per hour on average, which amounts to roughly $37,648 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Fort Worth earn slightly less at $16.65 per hour and $34,632 per year. This difference may reflect local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Worth for Line Cooks
Nearby areas that offer higher wages for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- West 7th: $18.00 per hour
Line Cooks seeking better pay might consider jobs closer to the West 7th area where wages tend to be above average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fort Worth?
Several factors contribute to the variation in Line Cook salaries in Fort Worth, including:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks earn higher wages due to refined skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in certain cuisines or cooking techniques can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries are generally higher at fine dining restaurants compared to casual or fast food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working nights, weekends, or holidays might include shift differentials increasing pay.
- Certifications: Holding food safety or culinary certifications can be advantageous for salary negotiations.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fort Worth
Getting started as a Line Cook in Fort Worth involves several key steps to build competence and credibility:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the 9-month Professional Culinary Program at The Culinary School of Fort Worth provide extensive hands-on kitchen experience and a 2-month externship offering real-world practice.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensure knowledge of essential food safety practices and are often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions such as prep cook or kitchen assistant provide valuable on-the-job training.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Success as a Line Cook depends equally on technical skills and ability to collaborate in a busy kitchen environment.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fort Worth
The following establishments are notable employers actively seeking skilled Line Cooks in Fort Worth:
- Nickel City
- Hash Kitchen
- The Fort Worth Club
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fort Worth Work At
Line Cooks in Fort Worth find employment in a variety of settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often have steady demand for Line Cooks but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically lower pay but higher employee turnover means more opportunities.
- Fine Dining: Higher skill requirements and better pay come with work in upscale restaurants.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments can offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly influences pay scales, job responsibilities, and opportunities for skill growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Worth for Line Cooks
If you are considering careers related to the Line Cook role, similar positions include:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which share similar culinary tasks and skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fort Worth
Line Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage responsibilities properly.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the Texas Workforce Commission website.