Line Cook Salary in Mesa, AZ
Line Cooks in Mesa, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $14.25 per hour, which translates to about $570.00 per week, $2,470.00 per month, and $29,640.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Mesa is positive, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Mesa, AZ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Mesa can vary based on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of earnings across different experience categories.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,503.33 | $30,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Mesa Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income primarily depends on their salary or wages with limited or no additional tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn around $14.50 per hour, which equals about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Mesa earn slightly less on average, making about $14.25 per hour and $29,640 annually. This small difference is likely due to local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Line Cooks
Line Cooks in areas near Mesa typically earn:
- Downtown Mesa: $15.50 per hour
- East Mesa: $16.00 per hour
These areas offer higher wages compared to the Mesa average, presenting good opportunities for higher earning potential nearby.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Mesa?
The salary of a Line Cook can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with better culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, upscale hotels, and catering services tend to pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Having relevant food safety certifications or formal culinary training can boost salary chances.
- Shift Timings: Working night shifts or weekends may include shift differentials, increasing pay.
How To Become a Line Cook in Mesa
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Mesa, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Mesa Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training including hands-on experience.
- Explore Culinary Courses: The East Valley Institute of Technology Culinary Program provides valuable practical skills and industry knowledge for aspiring Line Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the Food Handler's Card and ServSafe Certification are often mandatory or favored by employers in Arizona.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or internships helps build essential cooking skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Mesa
Several leading companies hire Line Cooks in Mesa, including:
- Hilton Hotels
- Marriott International
- Darden Restaurants
Establishments That Line Cooks in Mesa Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a variety of eateries and food service establishments such as casual dining, fast casual chains, hotels, and catering services.
The type of establishment influences salaries, with higher-end and full-service venues generally offering better pay and benefits compared to fast casual or quick service restaurants.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Line Cooks
If you are considering similar or related roles to Line Cook, you might explore options like:
These roles include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, which are related culinary positions that involve various kitchen responsibilities with different pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Mesa
Line Cooks in Mesa should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Arizona, which help ensure fair working conditions and proper compliance.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and guidelines.
- Check employment and labor resources on the Arizona Department of Economic Security website.
- For federal labor laws and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor site provides comprehensive information.