Line Cook Salary in Kenosha, WI
Line Cooks in Kenosha, WI, in 2025, make about $15.66 per hour. This equates to approximately $626.40 per week, $2,714.40 per month, and $32,572.80 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks is showing positive signs with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Kenosha, WI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Kenosha varies by experience, with entry-level cooks earning less and top earners making more. Below is a summary of wages based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.66 | $626.40 | $2,714.40 | $32,572.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,203.33 | $38,480.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Kenosha Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes. Tips typically go to front-of-house staff such as servers and bartenders, so their income is mainly through hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Kenosha vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $16.67 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $34,673.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Kenosha make slightly less at $15.66 per hour or $32,572.80 annually. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kenosha for Line Cooks
In the vicinity of Kenosha, pay rates for Line Cooks vary:
- Downtown Kenosha: $16.50 per hour
- HarborPark: $17.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in HarborPark tend to earn a bit more compared to Downtown Kenosha, reflecting variations in local business scales and clientele.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Kenosha?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Kenosha:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Culinary Certifications: Having certifications in food safety or culinary arts adds to earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer differential pay.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with higher demand for cooks tend to offer increased salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Kenosha
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Kenosha, aspiring cooks can focus on these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Gateway Technical College Culinary Arts Program deliver hands-on cooking skills and kitchen knowledge.
- Get Certified: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure food safety compliance.
- Obtain Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation validates culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles helps build the essential skills needed for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Kenosha
Several restaurants and food service businesses actively seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Grease & Honey Restaurants
- VPC Pizza Operating Corp
- Chili's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Kenosha Work At
Line Cooks in Kenosha find work in a range of culinary establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have a fast-paced environment with wages that depend on the chain’s size and popularity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay higher wages due to the upscale nature of food service.
- Caterers and Event Venues: Could offer variable hours but sometimes higher pay for special event work.
The type of establishment can significantly influence a Line Cook’s salary and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kenosha for Line Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to Line Cook positions, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Head Chef roles, each with its own set of responsibilities and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Kenosha
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with local and federal employment laws to understand their rights and obligations.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for detailed federal labor laws and regulations.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website provides state-specific labor laws, employment resources, and workers' rights information.