Line Cook Salary in Killeen, TX
Line Cooks in Killeen, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The employment outlook for Line Cooks in Killeen is quite positive, with a projected job growth rate of 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Killeen varies based on experience level and employer size. Here’s a breakdown of earnings for different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Killeen Earn Tips?
Generally, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing food, without direct interaction with customers. Their earnings mainly come from wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn approximately $14.50 per hour or around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Killeen Line Cooks earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, which translates to somewhat lower annual earnings. This difference can be due to the local cost of living, market demand, and employer size in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer different pay rates for Line Cooks, such as:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate near Killeen could benefit from higher salaries available in these surrounding markets.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Killeen?
A variety of factors impact Line Cook salaries in Killeen, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with refined culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or large hotels may offer better pay than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety and culinary certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Times: Working evening or overnight shifts might come with added pay differentials.
- Local Market Demand: The availability of skilled workers and employer needs can influence wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Killeen
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Killeen involves several steps that can help build your skills and improve job opportunities:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs such as the Central Texas College Culinary Arts Program based in Killeen or the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Austin, which provide strong foundational training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required for employment.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential by the American Culinary Federation validates fundamental culinary expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a prep cook or kitchen assistant helps build relevant skills and experience.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Killeen
Several well-known employers in Killeen frequently hire Line Cooks, including:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in Killeen Work At
Line Cooks can be found in various types of food service establishments in Killeen, each influencing salary differently:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically offer entry-level pay but provide steady employment and growth opportunities.
- Casual Dining: Usually offer higher wages than fast food outlets due to more complex menus and culinary demands.
- Fine Dining: Higher skill requirements here often come with increased pay and potential tips.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments may provide better benefits and salaries due to scale and prestige.
The variety of workplaces allows Line Cooks to choose roles that best align with their career goals and desired salary level.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Line Cooks
If you are considering careers related to Line Cook roles, here are similar hospitality positions you might explore:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Killeen
Understanding local and federal labor regulations is crucial for Line Cooks to protect their rights and manage taxes properly.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive labor law information.
- Check the Texas Workforce Commission's official site for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- The City of Killeen's official website provides local employment and business information.