Line Cook Salary in Kansas City, MO
Line Cooks in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.23 per hour, which translates to about $729.20 per week, $3,159.87 per month, and $37,918.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Kansas City can vary depending on experience and workplace, but here is a general overview of earnings by experience level.
| 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 Kansas City Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their earnings mainly come from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.23 per hour or $37,918.40 annually.
In comparison, Line Cooks in Kansas City earn roughly the national average, with typical wages around $18.23 per hour and yearly salaries near $37,918.40.
This parity suggests Kansas City's culinary labor market is aligned with national standards for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $19.00 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $18.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Kansas City offers a modest pay increase for Line Cooks compared to the city average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Kansas City:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks often command higher wages.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in specific cooking techniques or cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels tend to pay more than fast casual or chain eateries.
- Shift Timing: Working late or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food safety or culinary certifications can enhance pay and job prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Kansas City
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Kansas City involves several important steps:
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or kitchen assistant roles help develop foundational skills.
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on culinary education.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food handling.
- Obtain Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates professional competency.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Kansas City
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Line Cooks in Kansas City include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Line Cooks in Kansas City Work At
Line Cooks in Kansas City commonly work at a variety of establishments:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Such establishments often have fast-paced environments and moderate pay.
- Casual Dining: Offers a balance between pace and pay, sometimes with opportunities for tips in combined roles.
- Hotels and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to offer higher wages and more structured career advancement.
- Catering Services: May provide varied work experiences and occasional higher pay depending on events.
The salary a Line Cook receives can vary significantly based on the type and prestige of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Line Cooks
Those interested in Line Cook careers may also consider positions that require similar skills and offer different responsibilities and pay scales.
These similar careers include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, each with overlapping culinary responsibilities and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Kansas City
Line Cooks should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work:
- Federal laws and protections are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state regulations for Missouri can be found on Missouri's labor department website.
- Local employment rules and resources are available at the Kansas City official government site.