Line Cook Salary in Gainesville, FL
Line Cooks in Gainesville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.95 per hour, which translates to about $678.00 per week, $2,938.00 per month, and $35,256.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Gainesville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Gainesville, FL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Gainesville varies depending on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.40 | $576.00 | $2,493.33 | $29,952.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.95 | $678.00 | $2,938.00 | $35,256.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.94 | $797.60 | $3,446.93 | $41,459.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Gainesville Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is mostly behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly consists of base wages rather than tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Gainesville vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of approximately $16.95 per hour, or about $35,256 per year.
The salaries for Line Cooks in Gainesville align closely with the national averages, offering competitive wages that reflect the local cost of living and industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gainesville for Line Cooks
When considering areas near Gainesville, pay rates for Line Cooks can vary as follows:
- Downtown Gainesville: $18.50 per hour
- Midtown Gainesville: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Gainesville tend to earn higher wages, likely due to busier establishments or upscale dining options available in that area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Gainesville?
Several key factors affect a Line Cook’s salary in Gainesville:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks usually command higher wages due to refined skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Culinary Knowledge: Advanced cooking techniques and knowledge of food safety can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working late or overnight shifts may include shift differentials improving total income.
- Local Demand: Higher demand for kitchen staff can push wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Gainesville
To become a successful Line Cook in Gainesville, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Skills: Programs like Lil' Cooking Club for kids or Mini Grillers can introduce foundational skills for young enthusiasts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly regarded and often required to comply with local health regulations.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can enhance your credentials and advancement opportunities.
- Get Hands-On Experience: Working as a prep cook or in entry-level kitchen roles can provide practical skills essential for a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Gainesville
Popular local employers frequently offering opportunities for Line Cooks include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Olive Garden
- Bahama Breeze
Establishments That Line Cooks in Gainesville Work At
Line Cooks can find employment at various types of food service establishments in Gainesville:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide a steady stream of orders and often pay mid-range wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer quicker meal preparation, typically with moderate pay and faster-paced work.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Working here can offer higher wages due to the skill required and the prestige of the establishment.
- Hotel Kitchens: Often provide stable employment with potential benefits and occasionally better pay.
The salary of a Line Cook often depends on the establishment's prestige, clientele, and kitchen environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gainesville for Line Cooks
If you’re considering similar roles in hospitality, other positions might interest you:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Manager roles, all of which share overlapping skills and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Gainesville
Line Cooks in Gainesville should be aware of their rights and responsibilities under both federal and state laws.
- For detailed federal labor laws and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Florida's official site provides resources on state-specific labor laws and employment information.