Line Cook Salary in Hilo, HI
Line Cooks in Hilo, HI, in 2026, earn approximately $23.65 per hour, which translates to about $946.00 per week, $4,099.33 per month, and $49,192.00 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks in Hilo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those pursuing a career in this essential culinary position.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Hilo, HI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Hilo can vary depending on experience and specific employer demands. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,214.93 | $26,579.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.65 | $946.00 | $4,099.33 | $49,192.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.73 | $1,749.20 | $7,572.53 | $90,958.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Hilo Earn Tips?
Generally, Line Cooks do not earn tips directly from customers, as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. However, some establishments may include tip-sharing or tip-pooling policies where Line Cooks can receive a portion of total tips, but this varies widely and should not be relied upon as a consistent income source.
Line Cook Salary in Hilo vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which roughly equates to a yearly salary of $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Hilo have a significantly higher hourly wage of $23.65 and an annual salary of $49,192. This reflects local market conditions, cost of living, and demand in the Hilo area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hilo for Line Cooks
If you are considering nearby areas for employment, here are some places near Hilo that offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Hilo: $25.50 per hour
- Bayfront: $27.60 per hour
These higher wages suggest that seeking work in certain neighborhoods or commercial zones in and around Hilo can provide better earning opportunities.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Hilo?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Hilo, HI:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Line Cooks command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants generally offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Weekend or late-night shifts may include shift differentials increasing pay.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary training and food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand: Fluctuations in tourism and local economy affect job availability and wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Hilo
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Hilo involves several steps that can enhance your employability and salary prospects:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Hawaii Community College, which offers Certificate of Achievement and Associate in Applied Science degrees preparing students for food service roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures you meet essential industry standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a Prep Cook or kitchen assistant can provide hands-on learning and advancement opportunities.
- Develop Knife Skills and Time Management: These core kitchen skills are highly valuable for Line Cooks.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Hilo
Many employers in Hilo are actively recruiting skilled Line Cooks, including:
- DoubleTree by Hilton
- ISLAND NATURAL INC.
- Sodexo
Establishments That Line Cooks in Hilo Work At
Line Cooks find employment at a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Typically pay less but provide entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end establishments like those operated by DoubleTree may provide better pay and benefits.
- Catering Companies and Institutional Kitchens: These establishments vary widely in pay and work environment.
Working in upscale or specialty venues can significantly impact salary, often providing higher earnings than more basic service locations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hilo for Line Cooks
If you're exploring alternatives or related positions in the hospitality sector, here are a few related roles:
These roles include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, which involve similar culinary skills and different responsibilities in the kitchen hierarchy.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Hilo
Line Cooks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper work conditions and compliance:
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for national standards including minimum wage and overtime.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides state-specific guidance on employment laws and worker rights.