Line Cook Salary in Laredo, TX
Line Cooks in Laredo, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.10 per hour, which translates to about $484.00 per week, $2,097.33 per month, and $25,168.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Laredo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding job opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Laredo, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Laredo varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.61 | $424.40 | $1,837.07 | $22,088.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.10 | $484.00 | $2,097.33 | $25,168.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.52 | $620.80 | $2,685.33 | $32,281.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Laredo Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income is typically restricted to their wages without direct tipping.
Line Cook Salary in Laredo vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Laredo earn less hourly at $12.10 and about $25,168 annually, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Laredo for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- North Laredo: $14.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in North Laredo can expect slightly higher wages compared to Downtown Laredo, likely due to different restaurant types and clientele.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Laredo?
Several factors affect the salary of a Line Cook in Laredo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Working late or weekend shifts can sometimes provide shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training or food safety certifications increase job prospects and earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic factors in Laredo influence wage levels across the hospitality industry.
How To Become a Line Cook in Laredo
To begin a career as a Line Cook in Laredo, consider the following:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Laredo College Culinary Arts Program offer Associate degrees and Level 1 certificates providing practical skills in food preparation and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: The Texas Food Handler Certification is required for all food service workers, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions helps build skills needed for advancement.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Kitchens demand coordination and reliability under pressure.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Laredo
Laredo hosts several prominent employers recruiting skilled Line Cooks:
- Olive Garden
- The Laredo Country Club
- Chili's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Laredo Work At
Line Cooks work in various types of establishments that influence their salaries:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues often offer moderate pay but high turnover, good for gaining experience.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Typically provide higher wages and sometimes benefits due to higher service expectations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These offer the highest pay levels for Line Cooks with strong culinary skills and experience.
Salary variations largely depend on the prestige, size, and clientele of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Laredo for Line Cooks
If you’re exploring careers related to being a Line Cook, consider these similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Head Chef roles, which involve preparation and kitchen management skills closely related to Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Laredo
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax guidelines affecting their employment:
- To review federal regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- For Texas-specific labor laws and employment resources, check the Texas Workforce Commission's official site.