Line Cook Salary in Joliet, IL
Line Cooks in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.96 per hour, which translates to about $678.40 per week, $2,939.73 per month, and $35,276.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Joliet can vary depending on experience and employer type. The following table provides a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 Joliet Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income primarily comes from their wages and salary.
Line Cook Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18 per hour, which equals approximately $37,440 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Joliet earn slightly less at $16.96 per hour and $35,276.80 annually.
This difference can be influenced by local living costs and market demand in Joliet.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Line Cooks
If you are considering nearby areas, salaries for Line Cooks vary.
- Downtown Joliet: $19.50 per hour
- West Joliet: $18.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Joliet tend to earn more compared to other nearby areas due to the concentration of hospitality businesses.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Joliet?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Line Cook in Joliet:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more culinary experience or specialized cooking skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants or casinos typically offers better wages than fast-food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Line Cooks working evening or weekend shifts might receive premium pay or shift differentials.
- Education and Certifications: Additional culinary training or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Local Demand: Jobs in busier areas or high-tourism environments can pay more due to greater demand and higher operational budgets.
How To Become a Line Cook in Joliet
Becoming a Line Cook in Joliet involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Joliet Junior College is a strong foundation. This comprehensive program includes training in cooking techniques, sanitation, and kitchen management and is accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation.
- Consider Hospitality Management Courses: The Hospitality Management Program at Joliet Junior College offers education about restaurant operations, which is valuable for career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure understanding of food safety standards to reduce health risks.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification by the American Culinary Federation provides recognition of fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions, apprenticeships, and internships at local eateries allow building hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Joliet
Several notable employers in Joliet are known for hiring Line Cooks:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Harrah's Joliet Casino
- Hollywood Casino
Establishments That Line Cooks in Joliet Work At
Line Cooks typically work at various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These focus on efficient, reasonably priced meals and tend to have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: Quick service and limited menus can impact pay, often on the lower to mid end.
- Upscale Restaurants: These offer higher salaries reflecting the complexity and quality required in food preparation.
- Casinos and Hotels: Typically offer competitive wages and potential benefits due to larger operations.
The nature of the establishment directly influences the salary level a Line Cook can expect to earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Line Cooks
For those interested in roles similar to Line Cook, here are a few related careers:
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Supervisor positions, all of which involve culinary skills and kitchen operations related to the Line Cook role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Joliet
Line Cooks should be familiar with the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive guidelines on workplace rights and standards.
- The State of Illinois Department of Employment Security provides information on state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- For local regulations and resources, check the City of Joliet official website.