Line Cook in Inglewood, CA
Line Cooks in Inglewood, CA, in 2025, make approximately $20.57 per hour, usually earning about $822.80 per week, $3,565.47 per month, and $42,785.60 per year.
Job demand for Line Cooks in Inglewood is increasing moderately at a rate of around 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and steady growth in the food service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Inglewood, CA?
The earnings of a Line Cook in Inglewood change based on experience levels and specific workplace factors. Below is a breakdown of typical income ranges from entry-level to top earner positions.
| 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) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Inglewood Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not receive tips directly as they generally work in the kitchen away from customers. Their income mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Inglewood vs. National Average
The national average salary for a Line Cook is about $18.00 per hour, or around $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Inglewood earn slightly higher wages, with an average of $20.57 per hour and $42,785.60 annually. This is likely influenced by the local living costs and demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Inglewood for Line Cooks
Looking closer to home, salaries for Line Cooks can vary between neighborhoods:
- Downtown Inglewood: $21.00 per hour
- North Inglewood: $20.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Inglewood can expect slightly better pay, reflecting the area's diverse food scene and increased demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Inglewood?
Several key aspects play roles in determining the salary of a Line Cook:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced cooking skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or late-night shifts may have shift differentials that increase hourly wages.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications can raise earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: High demand for skilled kitchen staff in Inglewood drives salaries upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Inglewood
Becoming a Line Cook in Inglewood generally involves a combination of training and hands-on experience:
- Attend Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like the Los Angeles Trade–Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide solid culinary foundations.
- Enroll in Diploma Courses: The Institute of Culinary Education Los Angeles Campus offers diploma programs in culinary arts and restaurant management that can improve job prospects.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification and American Culinary Federation Certification are valuable credentials that assure employers of your food safety knowledge and culinary expertise.
- Gain Experience: Many Line Cooks start by working as kitchen assistants or prep cooks to develop skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Inglewood
Several well-known companies frequently seek Line Cooks in the Inglewood area, including:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- The Cheesecake Factory
- McDonald's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Inglewood Work At
Line Cooks find opportunities across various types of food service establishments:
- Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurants: These typically offer entry-level positions and consistent work hours but generally lower pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Offering moderate pay and room for advancement, these establishments demand quick, quality food preparation.
- Full-Service and Fine Dining: Skilled Line Cooks in these settings can earn higher wages, especially with specialized culinary skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide better pay and benefits depending on scale and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Line Cook’s salary in Inglewood, with upscale venues offering the most competitive compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Inglewood for Line Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider exploring related professions that can advance your culinary career.
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Head Chef, all of which require varying skill levels and offer different salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Inglewood
Line Cooks in Inglewood should be informed about the relevant labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure fair and legal employment practices.
- Federal labor regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific laws and workplace regulations are available through the California Department of Industrial Relations site.