Line Cook Salary in Little Rock, AR
Line Cooks in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector of Little Rock.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Line Cook in Little Rock varies depending on experience and skill level. Here's an overview of typical earnings across different experience brackets.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their roles are mostly behind the scenes in kitchen environments. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wages or salaries.
Line Cook Salary in Little Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.00 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $37,440 annually.
In Little Rock, AR, Line Cooks earn roughly the same hourly wage and yearly salary as the national average, reflecting a competitive pay scale in line with national standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Line Cooks
Line Cook salaries can vary slightly depending on the neighborhood within or near Little Rock:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- Riverdale: $19.00 per hour
Working in Downtown offers the highest hourly pay among the nearby areas, making it a favorable location for Line Cooks seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Little Rock?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Little Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined cooking skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Culinary Certifications: Certifications can make a significant difference in earning potential and job prospects.
- Work Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials, raising pay.
- Location: Working in higher-paying areas such as Downtown can boost salary.
How To Become a Line Cook in Little Rock
To start a career as a Line Cook in Little Rock, consider the following steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: The Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute at UA - Pulaski Technical College offers comprehensive programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry, and hospitality management, providing hands-on experience and accredited education.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification is essential for food handling safety and is highly regarded by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Line Cooks begin their careers with on-the-job training or internships in restaurant kitchens.
- Develop Strong Kitchen Skills: Mastery of cooking techniques, speed, and kitchen safety will improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Little Rock
Some of the leading employers in the area seeking skilled Line Cooks include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Deluca's
- Sullivan's Steakhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Little Rock Work At
Line Cooks find employment across diverse food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable, entry-level opportunities with standard wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate wages and fast-paced environments.
- Fine Dining: These establishments may offer higher pay due to skill demands and complexity of cuisine.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Can provide consistent work and potential benefits.
The type of establishment influences not only the base salary but also opportunities for advancement and skill development.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in careers related to being a Line Cook, consider these similar roles:
These careers include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, all of which share culinary skills and provide different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Little Rock
Line Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific resources and labor law details, check the Arkansas state website.