Line Cook Salary in Manchester, NH
Line Cooks in Manchester, NH, in 2025, earn approximately $18.82 per hour, which translates to about $752.80 per week, $3,262.13 per month, and $39,145.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Manchester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the culinary sector within the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Manchester, NH?
The salary of a Line Cook in Manchester varies across different experience levels, with entry-level positions earning less and seasoned professionals earning more.
| 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) | $18.82 | $752.80 | $3,262.13 | $39,145.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.09 | $923.60 | $4,006.93 | $48,000.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Manchester Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips. Their work usually takes place in the kitchen behind the scenes, meaning their earnings generally come from wages alone rather than customer gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Manchester, NH vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.91 per hour, or about $37,252.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Manchester earn slightly more, with an hourly wage of about $18.82 and an annual salary of approximately $39,145.60. This is in line with the region’s cost of living and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Manchester for Line Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Line Cooks include:
- Portsmouth: $20.90 per hour
- North Conway: $20.90 per hour
These locations offer a slight premium in wages, potentially due to tourism and upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Manchester?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Manchester:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Line Cooks with refined culinary skills and the ability to work efficiently in fast-paced environments command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or specialty restaurants may offer better compensation than casual or fast-food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with shift differentials, increasing earnings.
- Additional Certifications or Training: Culinary certifications and food safety training can enhance earning potential.
- Local Demand: The growing demand for culinary staff in the Manchester area positively impacts wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Manchester
Becoming a skilled Line Cook in Manchester involves several important steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Manchester Community College Culinary Arts Program offering an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts provide hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
- Consider a Bachelor’s Degree: For those interested in management as well, the Southern New Hampshire University Culinary Management Program offers a bachelor’s combining culinary skill with business education.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for Line Cooks to maintain food safety standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as apprentices or prep cooks helps you build the essential skills for the Line Cook position.
- Obtain Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification that demonstrates skills and dedication.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Manchester
Several notable employers in Manchester actively hire Line Cooks:
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- Glendale Dining Services
- Courtyard Manchester
Establishments That Line Cooks in Manchester Work At
Line Cooks find opportunities across a range of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Chains: May offer more consistent hours but typically at lower wages.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay more and require higher culinary skills.
- Catering Companies and Hotel Kitchens: These can provide diversified experience and sometimes better benefits.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary and opportunities for advancement for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Manchester for Line Cooks
If you're looking at related careers in hospitality similar to a Line Cook, here are a few options you might consider:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, which share culinary responsibilities and career growth potential with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Manchester
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Line Cooks to navigate their employment rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and workplace protections.
- The State of New Hampshire's official site provides details on local labor laws and resources for employees.