Line Cook Salary in Hackensack, NJ
Line Cooks in Hackensack, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.25 per hour, which translates to about $730.00 per week, $3,163.33 per month, and $37,960.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Hackensack is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job market growth and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Hackensack, NJ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Hackensack varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience 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 Hackensack Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income usually comes solely from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Hackensack vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160.00 per year.
Line Cooks in Hackensack, NJ, earn notably more, at around $18.25 per hour and approximately $37,960.00 annually, reflecting the higher living costs and demand for culinary workers in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hackensack for Line Cooks
Nearby towns offer competitive wages for Line Cooks, including:
- Fairfield: $38.00 per hour
- South Hackensack: $37.00 per hour
Line Cooks seeking higher pay might consider these areas, which offer significantly higher hourly wages compared to Hackensack.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Hackensack?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with refined culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty kitchens tend to pay better than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Kitchen Responsibilities: Taking on supervisory roles or additional duties can lead to higher pay.
- Work Hours and Shift Types: Working night shifts or weekends may include differential pay rates.
- Location and Cost of Living: Higher local living costs often boost wages, such as in Hackensack compared to smaller towns.
How To Become a Line Cook in Hackensack
To start a career as a Line Cook in Hackensack, consider the following steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Completing programs such as the Eastwick College Culinary Arts Program, which is an 18-month Associate Degree offering broad training in food preparation, nutrition, and kitchen management.
- Specialized High School Programs: Attending Bergen County Academies - Academy for Culinary Arts and Hospitality Administration, providing focused training in culinary arts and hospitality during high school years.
- Certifications: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Manager Certification for food safety or the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can enhance job prospects.
- Apprenticeship and Work Experience: Gaining hands-on experience by working as a prep cook or kitchen helper is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Hackensack
Several well-known establishments currently seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Morton's The Steakhouse
- P.F. Chang's
- True Food Kitchen
Establishments That Line Cooks in Hackensack Work At
Line Cooks work in diverse culinary settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer entry to mid-level salaries with opportunities for tips or bonuses.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Pay is generally consistent but slightly lower compared to upscale venues.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These provide higher wages due to skill requirements and complexity of dishes.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations sometimes include benefits and salary premiums.
The type and prestige of the establishment influence the earning potential for a Line Cook significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hackensack for Line Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Line Cooking, you might explore these options which offer similar skills and job characteristics.
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef, which are roles closely linked to Line Cooking responsibilities and culinary progression.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Hackensack
Line Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- For comprehensive information on labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment regulations for New Jersey, including minimum wage and employment rights, are outlined on the New Jersey government website.