Line Cook Salary in Missoula, MT
Line Cooks in Missoula, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $18.53 per hour, which translates to about $741.20 per week, $3,211.87 per month, and $38,542.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Missoula is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Missoula, MT?
The salary of a Line Cook in Missoula varies depending on experience and establishment type. Here is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.26 | $610.40 | $2,635.73 | $31,588.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.27 | $770.80 | $3,313.87 | $39,981.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.32 | $972.80 | $4,210.13 | $50,585.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Missoula Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen, and tipping is typically reserved for front-of-house staff.
Line Cook Salary in Missoula vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.99 per hour and approximately $37,419.20 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Line Cooks in Missoula earn slightly more, with about $18.53 per hour and $38,542.40 annually, reflecting local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Missoula for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive pay rates for Line Cooks, such as:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- University District: $18.75 per hour
These areas provide potential opportunities for Line Cooks seeking higher wages near Missoula.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Missoula?
The salary of a Line Cook in Missoula is influenced by several important factors.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with specialized culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Hours and Shift Timing: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may include shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe can enhance employability and salary potential.
- Local Demand: The culinary demand in Missoula and nearby areas can lead to competitive pay to retain talent.
How To Become a Line Cook in Missoula
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Missoula involves several steps to build skills and qualifications.
- Education: Consider enrolling at institutions such as Big Sky Culinary Institute at Missoula College or University of Montana’s Missoula College for culinary programs providing foundational knowledge.
- Certifications: Obtaining food safety credentials like the ServSafe Certification is essential to demonstrate competence.
- Professional Credentials: Pursuing recognized certifications such as American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can help advance your career.
- On-the-Job Training: Many Line Cooks advance by gaining practical experience in kitchens and learning from seasoned chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Missoula
Several restaurants and dining establishments in Missoula are actively hiring Line Cooks, including:
- Pie Hole
- IHOP
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Missoula Work At
Line Cooks in Missoula typically work in various settings, such as casual dining, fast casual, and full-service restaurants.
The type of establishment influences salary significantly. For example, fast casual venues might offer steady but moderate pay, while full-service or upscale restaurants could provide higher wages and benefits.
Hotels and catering companies also employ Line Cooks, sometimes offering additional perks and higher remuneration depending on clientele and event scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Missoula for Line Cooks
Those interested in culinary careers related to Line Cook might consider several other roles with overlapping skills and potential growth.
Similar jobs include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which involve kitchen work with variations in responsibility and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Missoula
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper workplace rights and compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor to review federal labor standards, wage laws, and worker protections.
- Check the Montana Department of Labor and Industry for information specific to employment standards in the state, including wage laws and workplace safety requirements.