Line Cook Salary in Lubbock, TX
Line Cooks in Lubbock, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.37 per hour, which translates to about $534.80 per week, $2,317.47 per month, and $27,809.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Lubbock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increased job opportunities in the foodservice industry locally.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Lubbock, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Lubbock can vary based on experience and skill level. Here’s an overview of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.78 | $431.20 | $1,865.87 | $22,374.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.37 | $534.80 | $2,317.47 | $27,809.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.58 | $663.20 | $2,875.47 | $34,465.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Lubbock Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mainly consists of hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Lubbock vs. National Average
Nationally, the average Line Cook earns about $16.12 per hour and approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Lubbock earn somewhat less, at $13.37 per hour and $27,809.60 per year, reflecting regional cost of living differences and market competition.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lubbock for Line Cooks
Within the Lubbock area, salaries for Line Cooks vary by neighborhood:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Lubbock: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in South Lubbock typically earn higher wages compared to those in Downtown, suggesting opportunities exist for higher pay in different parts of the city.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Lubbock?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook earns in Lubbock:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Line Cooks with greater culinary expertise can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with pay differentials enhancing overall compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Holding relevant certifications or having formal culinary training can boost salary potential.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: High demand for skilled cooks in Lubbock can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Lubbock
Starting as a Line Cook requires culinary knowledge, hands-on skills, and often formal education or certification.
Some valuable educational programs and certifications in Lubbock include:
- South Plains College Culinary Arts Program: Offers comprehensive culinary training with hands-on experience in various cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Lubbock Community College Culinary Program: Provides foundational culinary education focusing on practical skills and industry standards.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: A nationally recognized credential ensuring food safety knowledge.
- Texas Food Manager Certification: Important for supervisory roles in food service establishments within Texas.
By completing these programs and obtaining certifications, aspiring Line Cooks can improve their prospects and earning potential in Lubbock.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Lubbock
Popular local employers actively hiring Line Cooks include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Chili's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Lubbock Work At
Line Cooks in Lubbock often find employment in diverse types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but wages may be moderate compared to other venues.
- Fast Casual Chains: These typically have high volume, fast-paced environments with competitive pay.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Offer higher salaries and opportunities to specialize and advance.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can provide varied experiences and better compensation.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect salary levels for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lubbock for Line Cooks
Line Cooks may consider related roles in hospitality that offer similar skills and salary ranges.
Potential related careers include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Cook, all of which involve food preparation but differ in responsibilities and possible earnings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Lubbock
Line Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations relevant to work in Texas.
- On the Texas government website you can find detailed information about state labor laws, minimum wage, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor standards and resources, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.