Line Cook Salary in Huntington, WV
Line Cooks in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Huntington is growing positively by about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and market stability for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Line Cook in Huntington varies with experience, establishment type, and responsibilities.
| 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 Huntington Earn Tips?
Generally, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wage, rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Huntington earn significantly more, with local wages averaging around $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 per year. This difference reflects factors such as local demand, cost of living, and the types of foodservice establishments prevalent in Huntington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Line Cooks
Among nearby areas, pay rates for Line Cooks differ slightly:
- Downtown Huntington: $19.00 per hour
- Southside: $18.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Huntington generally earn a slightly higher rate, reflecting the area's concentration of potentially higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Huntington?
A variety of factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Huntington:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks command higher wages due to their developed skills and efficiency in busy kitchen environments.
- Skillset and Specializations: Knowledge of specific cuisines, cooking techniques, or kitchen equipment can increase earning potential.
- Establishment Type: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering operations generally offers better pay than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes come with premium pay rates.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications may contribute to wage increases or job offers.
How To Become a Line Cook in Huntington
Building a career as a Line Cook in Huntington involves several steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Pursuing programs such as the Mountwest Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive training in culinary skills, practical experience, and recognized certifications.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with health standards and is often required by employers.
- Entry-Level Culinary Certifications: Earning credentials such as Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates proficiency and enhances employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in kitchens as a prep cook or kitchen assistant helps develop the skills necessary for advancement to Line Cook roles.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Huntington
Several popular establishments in Huntington frequently hire Line Cooks, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Roosters Wings
- Tudor's Biscuit World
Establishments That Line Cooks in Huntington Work At
Line Cooks in Huntington commonly find employment at diverse types of foodservice venues:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Often provide steady work but with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Offer fast-paced environments, sometimes with opportunities for bonuses or higher hourly pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Require more specialized skills and may offer higher pay to experienced Line Cooks.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Can provide varied work and sometimes better compensation for peak events.
The type of establishment has a sizable influence on earnings, with more upscale venues generally providing higher salaries and chances for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Line Cook, consider these similar careers:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which involve related kitchen and cooking duties at varied skill levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Huntington
Line Cooks should stay informed on labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and legal compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific West Virginia state labor laws, see the West Virginia Division of Labor website.