Line Cook Salary in Honolulu, HI
Line Cooks in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $21.30 per hour, which translates to about $852.00 per week, $3,692.00 per month, and $44,304.00 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Honolulu is experiencing a positive growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy and increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Honolulu varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment. Here’s an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.51 | $780.40 | $3,378.27 | $40,539.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,598.40 | $43,430.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.71 | $948.40 | $4,107.47 | $49,296.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary rather than tips.
Line Cook Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $18.00 and a yearly salary around $37,440.00.
Compared to these averages, Line Cooks in Honolulu earn a higher hourly wage of $21.30 and a yearly salary of $44,304.00, reflective of the local economy and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Line Cooks
Some nearby areas offer varied salaries for Line Cooks:
- Waikiki: $22.50 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $21.80 per hour
Working in Waikiki generally offers a higher wage compared to Downtown Honolulu due to the area's heavy tourist traffic and upscale dining scene.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Honolulu:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Line Cooks command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and resorts typically pay more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Work Schedule: Those willing to work nights, weekends, or holidays might receive shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary certifications or food safety credentials can enhance salary potential.
- Local Demand: Tourism-driven markets like Honolulu often lead to higher wages due to increased demand.
How To Become a Line Cook in Honolulu
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Honolulu usually involves the following steps:
- Gain Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program or Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and enhances job prospects.
- Practical Experience: Begin in entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build hands-on skills.
- Licensing Awareness: For those interested in related roles involving alcohol service, the Hawaii Liquor Commission Bartender License is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Honolulu
Several establishments actively seek skilled Line Cooks in the Honolulu area, including:
- Hula Grill Waikiki
- Aloha Hospitality Professionals
- Star of Honolulu
Establishments That Line Cooks in Honolulu Work At
Line Cooks in Honolulu find employment in a variety of dining environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Usually offer faster-paced work, sometimes with lower pay but more entry-level opportunities.
- Resorts and Hotels: Typically offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement due to larger scale operations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Generally provide the highest salary potential, reflecting the skill and presentation required.
The type of establishment heavily influences the salary and benefits available to Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Line Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider exploring these positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook positions, all closely related to line cooking roles and involving similar kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Honolulu
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Line Cooks working in Honolulu.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards.
- Visit the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website for state-specific rules and workplace rights.
- The City and County of Honolulu official website provides local labor information and resources.