Line Cook Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Line Cooks in Milwaukee, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $17.63 per hour, which translates to about $705.20 per week, $3,055.87 per month, and $36,670.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the local culinary sector.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Milwaukee varies based on level of experience and employer, providing a range of earnings across the field.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.17 | $566.80 | $2,453.73 | $29,513.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.63 | $705.20 | $3,055.87 | $36,670.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.93 | $877.20 | $3,799.47 | $45,614.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their behind-the-scenes work in food preparation does not involve direct customer interaction; their income generally comes solely from wages.
Line Cook Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.63 per hour or roughly $36,670.40 per year.
Line Cooks in Milwaukee earn approximately the same as the national average, matching average wages and maintaining competitive pay for the role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods show variations in pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Historic Third Ward: $19.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in the Historic Third Ward enjoy some of the highest hourly rates near Milwaukee, while Downtown also offers competitive pay.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Line Cooks with experience handling complex menus often command higher salaries.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels tends to offer better pay compared to fast casual or smaller eateries.
Certifications: Possession of culinary certifications or food safety credentials can boost employability and wages.
Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may offer additional pay incentives.
Local Demand and Cost of Living: Milwaukee's growing food scene and living expenses reflect on competitive salaries offered.
How To Become a Line Cook in Milwaukee
Starting a Line Cook career in Milwaukee is supported by local education and certification options.
Complete Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for culinary roles.
Waukesha County Technical College Culinary Management Program also provides education focused on culinary skills, menu planning, and hands-on kitchen operations.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health regulations critical for Line Cooks.
Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification substantiating culinary skills and knowledge.
Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships help develop on-the-job skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Milwaukee
Some of the notable employers seeking skilled Line Cooks in Milwaukee include:
- The Vanguard
- Food Fight Restaurant Group
- Milwaukee Rescue Mission
Establishments That Line Cooks in Milwaukee Work At
Line Cooks in Milwaukee typically find employment across diverse establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady work with moderate pay; often great for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually faster paced and may offer slightly lower wages compared to casual dining.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Often pay higher wages and require refined culinary skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can offer competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salaries, with upscale venues typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Line Cooks
If you are exploring similar roles to Line Cook, consider these related careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Prep Cook positions, which offer related culinary opportunities with varied responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Milwaukee
Line Cooks should be aware of key labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure workplace compliance and manage finances efficiently.
- Access federal labor law information on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Wisconsin-specific employment regulations and workforce resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development site.
- The City of Milwaukee official website offers details on local employment policies, permits, and services relevant to workers.