Line Cook Salary in Lincoln, NE
Line Cooks in Lincoln, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $17.70 per hour, which translates to about $708.00 per week, $3,068.00 per month, and $36,816.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Line Cook in Lincoln varies by experience level and skill, with wages reflecting both job responsibilities and expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.26 | $610.40 | $2,641.73 | $31,731.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.70 | $708.00 | $3,050.00 | $36,816.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.53 | $821.20 | $3,552.53 | $41,302.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings rely mostly on hourly wages or salaries.
Line Cook Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of $17.70 per hour, or approximately $36,816 annually.
Line Cooks in Lincoln, NE, earn wages that align closely with the national average, making the local compensation competitive within the broader job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Lincoln: $20.00 per hour
- Haymarket District: $19.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Lincoln enjoy the highest pay among surrounding districts, reflective of the area's higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors contribute to the salary range for Line Cooks in Lincoln:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Wages vary depending on whether one works in fast casual, fine dining, or hotel restaurants.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or weekends can sometimes include shift differentials.
- Certifications: Possessing food safety certifications or culinary training can increase earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: As the culinary industry grows in Lincoln, higher demand can drive salaries upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Lincoln
Becoming a Line Cook in Lincoln involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Southeast Community College Culinary/Hospitality Program provide hands-on skills and knowledge essential to culinary careers.
- Hospitality Management Training: The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Program offers preparation for broader roles within the industry, beneficial for career advancement.
- Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a widely recognized credential that demonstrates competence in food safety practices.
- Professional Certifications: Entry-level recognition such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) Certification from the American Culinary Federation can boost credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships builds the essential skills for Line Cooks.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Lincoln
Many respected employers in Lincoln are actively seeking skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Warhorse Casino
- FLIK Hospitality Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Lincoln Work At
Line Cooks in Lincoln find jobs across a variety of venues, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally offer steady hours with moderate pay levels.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often provide competitive wages, favoring speed and efficiency in food preparation.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer higher wages and potentially benefits, requiring versatility.
- Fine Dining: Usually pays more, rewarding high culinary skill and presentation standards.
The type of establishment can greatly influence a Line Cook’s salary and career trajectory.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Line Cooks
Those interested in the culinary field can consider related roles with similar skill sets and career pathways.
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which involve overlapping culinary duties and offer various advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Lincoln
Line Cooks in Lincoln should be familiar with important labor laws and tax regulations applicable at the state and federal levels.
- For state-specific labor information, visit the State of Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor laws and workplace safety resources, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.