Line Cook Salary in Gary, IN
Line Cooks in Gary, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Gary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market trend for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Gary, IN?
The salary of a Line Cook in Gary varies based on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings across different levels.
| 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 Gary Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is mainly back-of-house, and tip distribution usually favors front-of-house staff. Their income is generally based on hourly wages alone.
Line Cook Salary in Gary vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $16.05 per hour, equating to roughly $33,384.00 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Gary, IN, earn a higher hourly wage of $18.00, resulting in a stronger annual salary of $37,440.00.
This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and the demand for culinary talent in Gary.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gary for Line Cooks
If you are considering nearby areas to Gary, the highest-paying locations for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown Gary: $19.00 per hour
- Miller Beach: $20.00 per hour
The opportunity to earn above-average wages in these neighborhoods might attract Line Cooks seeking higher pay.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Gary?
Several key factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Gary:
- Experience and skill level: More experienced cooks who can handle diverse kitchen tasks typically command higher pay.
- Type of establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers better wages than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and training: Culinary certifications and food safety credentials can increase earning potential.
- Shift differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional compensation.
- Local economic conditions: Gary’s cost of living and restaurant market influence wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Gary
Becoming a skilled Line Cook in Gary involves gaining both education and practical experience. Here are key steps to consider:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at Gary Comer Youth Center offers focused culinary education with an emphasis on career development and healthy cooking practices for local youth.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly recommended or required to ensure compliance with safe food handling standards.
- Gain Professional Credentials: Consider obtaining the Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential offered by the American Culinary Federation to validate your skills and knowledge.
- Obtain Hands-on Experience: Many Line Cooks start by working in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Gary
Several well-known companies in Gary consistently hire Line Cooks, including:
- McDonald's
- Hard Rock International
- Portillo's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Gary Work At
Line Cooks in Gary typically find employment at a variety of food establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: Usually offer consistent hours with moderate wages but less opportunity for tips or advancement.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These sometimes pay more and provide opportunities to gain diverse cooking skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher wages often come with more responsibilities and sometimes benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These usually offer higher pay reflective of advanced culinary skills and experience.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the potential salary of a Line Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gary for Line Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Line Cooking, here are some similar roles worth exploring:
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Cook positions, which share similar culinary and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Gary
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax requirements that impact their employment:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws, workplace safety regulations, and employment standards.
- For state-specific information, refer to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development site, which offers resources on state labor laws and workforce programs.
- Check the City of Gary official website for local regulations, community resources, and business guidelines.