Line Cook Salary in Lawton, OK
Line Cooks in Lawton, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $11.85 per hour, which translates to about $474.00 per week, $2,054.00 per month, and $24,648.00 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks is showing a positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in Lawton and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Line Cook in Lawton, OK varies based on experience and employer. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.20 | $328.00 | $1,420.27 | $17,056.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.85 | $474.00 | $2,050.00 | $24,648.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.14 | $685.60 | $2,945.07 | $35,611.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Lawton Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their compensation is generally based on their hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in Lawton vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which comes to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Lawton earn somewhat less, at approximately $11.85 per hour and $24,648 annually.
This difference is influenced by regional cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Line Cooks:
- Area 1: $14.37 per hour
- Area 2: $15.92 per hour
These areas pay notably higher salaries than Lawton, presenting potential opportunities for Line Cooks willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Lawton?
Several factors influence the salary of a Line Cook in Lawton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries tend to be higher in upscale restaurants or hotels compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Night or weekend shifts might offer higher hourly rates.
- Location Considerations: Proximity to larger urban centers or tourist areas can positively impact pay.
How To Become a Line Cook in Lawton
Becoming a successful Line Cook in Lawton typically involves the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Culinary Hospitality Assistant or Culinary Coordinator courses offered by the Great Plains Technology Center. These programs provide foundational and advanced culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: It is important to acquire certifications like Food Handler Certification, required for all food service employees in Oklahoma, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting with entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships helps build essential skills and knowledge.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Teamwork Skills: Success as a Line Cook depends on collaboration and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Lawton
Several notable employers in Lawton hire Line Cooks, including:
- McDonald's
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Lawton Work At
Line Cooks in Lawton find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Usually offer steady work hours but tend to have lower wages.
- Casual Dining and Family Restaurants: These often provide moderate pay with opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer higher salaries and benefits due to the scale and expectations of the business.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically pay higher wages to skilled Line Cooks but also demand greater expertise and speed.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Line Cooks
If you’re exploring careers related to Line Cooking, consider these similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, each requiring specific culinary skills and offering various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Lawton
Line Cooks in Lawton should be informed about labor laws and tax policies that affect their employment:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Oklahoma for comprehensive information on state labor regulations and services.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official site for federal labor laws and employment standards that apply nationwide.