Line Cook Salary in Fresno, CA
Line Cooks in Fresno, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.70 per hour, which translates to about $788.00 per week, $3,414.67 per month, and $40,976.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fresno is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fresno, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fresno varies based on experience and the type of employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 Fresno Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen, with minimal direct customer interaction. Their income largely consists of their hourly wage and any applicable benefits.
Line Cook Salary in Fresno vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $37,440.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Fresno earn a bit more hourly at $19.70, with annual earnings of about $40,976.00, which reflects Fresno’s specific market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fresno for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Line Cooks:
- Bakersfield: $20.00 per hour
- Modesto: $21.00 per hour
Commuting to these locations could potentially offer better pay compared to Fresno, although factors such as commute time and cost should be considered.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fresno?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Line Cook in Fresno, including:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks can command higher wages due to their proficiency and speed.
- Skills and Specializations: Mastery of specific cuisines or cooking techniques can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens often pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts or holidays may offer additional pay premiums.
- Geographical Location: Salaries can vary within Fresno and nearby areas based on local demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fresno
Becoming a Line Cook in Fresno involves a combination of training, certification, and hands-on experience.
Key steps include:
- Obtaining Culinary Education: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Basic Culinary Arts Certificate or the Advanced Culinary Arts Certificate offered by Fresno City College, which provide foundational and intermediate culinary skills.
- Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are essential for compliance with health regulations.
- Gaining Kitchen Experience: Entry-level positions such as prep cook or kitchen assistant provide valuable on-the-job training.
- Continuing Skill Development: Refining cooking techniques and learning to handle complex kitchen operations can advance career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fresno
Many well-known establishments in Fresno seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Marie Callender's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fresno Work At
Line Cooks in Fresno find employment in various types of food service settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work but often have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: Provide fast-paced environments with relatively consistent wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can pay higher due to the upscale clientele and event-driven work.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher pay to Line Cooks with specialized skills.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with upscale and specialty venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fresno for Line Cook
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider the following related careers:
These roles include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Cook, which share similar skill sets and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fresno
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand rights and obligations under national law.
- For state-specific labor laws, see the California Department of Industrial Relations, which provides extensive guidance.
- Local resources and information can be found on the City of Fresno's official website.