Line Cook Salary in Mesquite, TX
Line Cooks in Mesquite, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.29 per hour, which translates to about $491.60 per week, $2,130.27 per month, and $25,563.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Mesquite is currently growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting promising job prospects and increased opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Mesquite, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Mesquite varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Mesquite Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is focused in the kitchen and they rarely interact directly with customers. Their earnings come primarily from their base pay.
Line Cook Salary in Mesquite vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Mesquite earn a bit less on average, at about $12.29 per hour and $25,563.20 annually. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesquite for Line Cooks
If you’re open to working nearby, some areas offer higher pay:
- Downtown Mesquite: $15.50 per hour
- Town East: $17.60 per hour
Considering a commute to these neighborhoods could improve your earning potential as a Line Cook.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Mesquite?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Mesquite:
- Experience and Skill: More experienced cooks with broad cooking skills can command better wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay more than casual or fast-food places.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer differential pay.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and culinary training can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Demand: Higher demand in busier or more upscale establishments may increase wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Mesquite
To become a Line Cook in Mesquite, consider the following steps:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the El Centro College Culinary Arts Program or Dallas College Culinary, Pastry and Hospitality Center provide hands-on skills and culinary knowledge.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the Food Handler's Certification, required by Texas, and the ServSafe Certification can make you a more attractive candidate.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles such as kitchen assistant or prep cook help develop practical skills.
- Networking: Building relationships within the local culinary community can open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Mesquite
If you’re job hunting, consider applying to these well-known local employers:
- On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
- IHOP
- Ernest Health
Establishments That Line Cooks in Mesquite Work At
Line Cooks are employed in a diverse array of foodservice establishments in Mesquite, including:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These places often offer consistent hours but may have slightly lower wages.
- Casual Dining: Provides opportunities for advancement and typically offers better pay than fast food.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These generally pay higher wages and require specialized culinary techniques.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals, schools, and event caterers also employ Line Cooks, sometimes with benefits.
The type of establishment has a strong impact on salary, benefits, and workload for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesquite for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in similar roles to Line Cook, consider opportunities in these related culinary and hospitality positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook, roles that share similar skills and experience requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Mesquite
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Line Cooks working in Mesquite:
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State employment laws and workforce resources are available through the Texas Workforce Commission.
- Local rules and employment resources can be accessed on the City of Mesquite official website.