Line Cook Salary in Madison, WI
Line Cooks in Madison, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.75 per hour, which translates to about $750.00 per week, $3,250.00 per month, and $39,000.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Madison is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Madison can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.61 | $744.40 | $3,220.13 | $38,662.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.81 | $912.40 | $3,946.67 | $47,444.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Madison Earn Tips?
Generally, Line Cooks do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.75 per hour, which is equivalent to roughly $39,000 per year.
The pay in Madison aligns closely with the national average, indicating the city's culinary sector offers competitive wages consistent with broader trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Line Cooks
Nearby areas show slightly different pay scales for Line Cooks:
- Middleton: $17.95 per hour
- Grafton: $17.87 per hour
Although these areas offer slightly lower hourly wages than Madison, they remain competitive options for employment within commuting distance.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors contribute to how much a Line Cook may earn in Madison:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants typically offers better pay than casual or fast food eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with premium pay.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications can boost marketability and salary potential.
- Local Demand: Increased demand in the Madison area for skilled cooks can lead to better pay.
How To Become a Line Cook in Madison
Becoming a Line Cook in Madison involves several steps to build skills and gain experience.
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Madison Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program or University of Wisconsin-Madison Continuing Studies Culinary Courses to develop comprehensive culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are critical to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Consider Professional Credentials: Earning a Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in kitchens to develop on-the-job skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Madison
Several established employers in Madison frequently seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Mariners Inn
- Exact Sciences
- Amara
Establishments That Line Cooks in Madison Work At
Line Cooks typically find positions in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide steady work, though wages here tend to be on the moderate side.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Offer opportunities for higher pay and advancement but demand more skill and precision.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Often provide consistent schedules with varying pay scales depending on the organization.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential, with fine dining restaurants typically offering the highest salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Line Cooks
For those interested in related careers, here are similar positions in the hospitality industry worth considering:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, each with different responsibilities and earning ranges that build upon similar culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Madison
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Line Cooks.
- You can visit the federal Department of Labor website for information on workplace regulations and employment rights.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development offers resources on state-specific employment laws and workforce programs.
- For local rules, the City of Madison official site provides details on permits and community resources.