Line Cook Salary in Grand Rapids, MI
Line Cooks in Grand Rapids, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Grand Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and food service industries.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Grand Rapids, MI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Grand Rapids varies depending on experience, skills, and the employer. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Grand Rapids Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes and not customer-facing. Their compensation primarily comes from their wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Grand Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Grand Rapids earn slightly less at approximately $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This difference reflects regional cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Grand Rapids for Line Cooks
The nearby areas of Grand Rapids offer slightly varied pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East Grand Rapids: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in East Grand Rapids can expect the highest pay compared to other nearby locations, reflecting demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Grand Rapids?
Several factors play a role in influencing a Line Cook's salary in Grand Rapids:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced cooks or those with specialized skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or hotels typically pay more than fast casual or quick-service venues.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials increasing pay.
- Certifications: Having culinary certifications or food safety credentials can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand: Areas with a robust dining scene tend to offer better compensation due to competition for skilled cooks.
How To Become a Line Cook in Grand Rapids
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Grand Rapids, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Grand Rapids Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary training preparing students for kitchen roles.
- Advanced Education: Institutions such as the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education provide advanced culinary courses and facilities to deepen skills.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and ensures awareness of safe food handling practices.
- Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation help demonstrate professionalism and competence.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in kitchens to build hands-on skills and understand kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Grand Rapids
Some prominent employers actively seeking Line Cooks in Grand Rapids include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in Grand Rapids Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in various types of establishments, each with differing pay structures:
- Fast Food Chains: These usually offer entry-level pay but consistent hours.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with potential for tips in some cases.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These establishments tend to offer higher wages and require more skill.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Often pay more due to larger scale operations and varied cuisine.
The establishment type can significantly affect a Line Cook's salary, with upscale venues generally providing higher earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Grand Rapids for Line Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Line Cook, here are a few related careers in the hospitality industry:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, which share culinary responsibilities and offer varied salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Grand Rapids
It is important for Line Cooks in Grand Rapids to be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage employment terms effectively.
- For state-specific labor regulations, visit the Official Michigan government website which provides comprehensive employment laws and guidelines.
- For federal labor laws and standards, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official site offering resources on wages, overtime, and worker rights.