Line Cook Salary in Franklin, TN
Line Cooks in Franklin, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $18.17 per hour, which translates to about $726.80 per week, $3,149.47 per month, and $37,793.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Franklin is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy expansion in opportunities within the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Franklin, TN?
The salary of a Line Cook in Franklin varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different stages of a Line Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.56 | $582.40 | $2,513.07 | $30,204.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.17 | $726.80 | $3,149.47 | $37,793.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.66 | $906.40 | $3,899.73 | $46,972.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Franklin Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work mostly takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Franklin vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.17 per hour, which is equivalent to approximately $37,793.60 per year.
Comparing Franklin to the national average, the hourly wage and annual salary for Line Cooks remain about the same, reflecting a balanced market for this role in Franklin.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Franklin for Line Cooks
Salary varies slightly depending on the surrounding areas near Franklin. Consider these two nearby locations:
- Downtown Franklin: $19.10 per hour
- Cool Springs: $18.67 per hour
Working in Downtown Franklin offers Line Cooks the highest rates close to the city, potentially reflecting the demand and upscale dining in that area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Franklin?
Several important factors influence the salary Level a Line Cook can expect in Franklin:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and specialty dining venues often pay more than casual or fast-food establishments.
- Certifications and Training: Positions requiring certifications or additional culinary education may offer better pay.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts can sometimes come with differential pay, adding to overall earnings.
How To Become a Line Cook in Franklin
A career as a Line Cook in Franklin can be achieved by following several steps:
- Gain Hands-On Culinary Experience: Engage in practical cooking opportunities, including local youth programs such as the Williamson County 4-H Culinary Program or the Franklin High School Culinary Arts Program.
- Obtain Food Safety Credentials: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) can enhance your resume and employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Franklin
Some of the prominent employers currently looking for skilled Line Cooks in Franklin include:
- Olive Garden
- Southall
- Connors Steak and Seafood
Establishments That Line Cooks in Franklin Work At
Line Cooks in Franklin typically work in a range of hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work with moderate pay, suitable for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Often have structured wages but limited tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Venues: Typically provide higher wages and may require greater culinary skills.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, with more upscale kitchens generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Franklin for Line Cooks
If you are exploring career alternatives related to the Line Cook position, here are some similar roles to consider:
These careers include Chef de Partie, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook, roles involving related culinary skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Franklin
Line Cooks should stay informed about the labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their work in Tennessee.
- On the Tennessee government website, you can find up-to-date information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal labor standards and workplace rules, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.