Line Cook Salary in Hammond, IN
Line Cooks in Hammond, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $16.05 per hour, which translates to about $642.00 per week, $2,782.00 per month, and $33,384.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Hammond is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job opportunities for those pursuing a career in this role.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Hammond, IN?
Line Cook salaries in Hammond vary depending on the experience level, but below is a general overview of the hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay scales.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.83 | $513.20 | $2,222.13 | $26,666.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,782.00 | $33,384.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.08 | $803.20 | $3,498.13 | $41,766.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Hammond Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is mainly focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is mostly salary-based without gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Hammond vs. National Average
The average hourly pay for Line Cooks nationally is approximately $18.00 per hour, with an annual salary around $37,440.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Hammond earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $16.05 and an annual salary of $33,384.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hammond for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks may find higher wages include:
- South Hammond: $17.50 per hour
- Woodmar: $16.80 per hour
These surrounding neighborhoods offer opportunities to earn a higher wage compared to the city average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Hammond?
Several factors can affect the salary level for Line Cooks in Hammond:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Line Cooks tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catering services may pay more than fast-food chains or casual diners.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or food safety licenses can increase earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Working night or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand within Hammond affect wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Hammond
Getting started as a Line Cook involves several key steps:
- Education and Training: Local programs such as the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program in nearby East Chicago provide hands-on training. Also, Purdue University Northwest offers Hospitality and Tourism Management courses including culinary arts in Hammond.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation are highly regarded and often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles such as prep cook or kitchen helper to build skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Hammond
The following companies are known to hire Line Cooks in Hammond:
- Freddy's Steak House
- Texas Roadhouse
- Panda Restaurant Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Hammond Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a variety of settings, each with potential impact on salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady work with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have a faster pace and may offer competitive wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to pay higher salaries reflecting the higher skill levels required.
- Catering Services and Hotels: Can offer higher wages and benefits as part of larger operations.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining salary, benefits, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hammond for Line Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to Line Cook, here are some similar roles worth considering:
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, which share similar culinary skills and offer varying salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Hammond
Line Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and employment resources are available at the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- For local government resources and information, visit the City of Hammond Official Website.