Line Cook Salary in Hawthorne, CA
Line Cooks in Hawthorne, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.00 per hour, which translates to about $800.00 per week, $3,466.67 per month, and $41,600.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Hawthorne is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the food service industry within the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Hawthorne, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Hawthorne varies depending on experience, skills, and the place of employment. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical earnings categorized by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.90 | $676.00 | $2,926.67 | $35,152.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Hawthorne Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes and not in direct contact with customers. Their compensation usually comes only from their wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Hawthorne vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, which equates to about $31,200.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Hawthorne earn significantly more at about $20.00 per hour and $41,600.00 annually. This difference stems from regional living costs and the demand for cooking professionals in Hawthorne.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hawthorne for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks can expect to earn more include:
- Los Angeles International Airport area: $25.00 per hour
- Lawndale: $22.00 per hour
These nearby areas offer higher pay rates, making them attractive options for Line Cooks willing to commute within the region.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Hawthorne?
Several key factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Hawthorne:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks or those with specialty culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Restaurants with fine dining or upscale service usually offer better pay than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Line Cooks working evening, night, or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials increasing their earnings.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can make a candidate more attractive to employers, potentially leading to higher pay.
- Local Cost of Living: Hawthorne's cost of living impacts wage levels, generally pushing salaries above the national average.
How To Become a Line Cook in Hawthorne
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Hawthorne, consider the following steps:
- Get Formal Culinary Training: Institutions like the Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles offer programs in culinary arts that provide valuable skills and knowledge.
- Seek High School Programs: Local schools such as Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets offer culinary arts training as part of their specialized programs.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often required and ensure compliance with health standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as prep cooks or kitchen assistants helps develop essential skills for becoming a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Hawthorne
The following employers in the Hawthorne area frequently seek skilled Line Cooks:
- The Proud Bird
- Eureka
- SpaceX
Establishments That Line Cooks in Hawthorne Work At
Line Cooks are employed in a variety of food service settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These are common employers with moderate wages and stable schedules.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Often pay wages on the lower side but can offer flexible hours.
- Hotels and Catering Facilities: Typically offer better pay and sometimes benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Pay more due to the higher skill level and experience required.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Line Cook’s earning potential, with upscale venues generally paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hawthorne for Line Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to being a Line Cook, you might consider these roles, which involve similar culinary skills and potentially different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Hawthorne
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements in California to better understand their rights and obligations.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources about employment services and unemployment benefits.