Line Cook Salary in Modesto, CA
Line Cooks in Modesto, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.02 per hour, which translates to about $800.80 per week, $3,470.13 per month, and $41,641.60 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Modesto is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook in the culinary and restaurant service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Modesto, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Modesto can vary depending on experience and employer type, but the following shows approximate earnings across various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,074.40 | $36,892.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,470.13 | $41,641.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.58 | $903.20 | $3,913.73 | $46,966.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Modesto Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly since they work behind the scenes preparing food. However, in some establishments, they may receive occasional tip pooling or bonuses, but generally, their compensation is mostly salary-based.
Line Cook Salary in Modesto vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of approximately $17.86 per hour, or around $37,148.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Modesto earn more, with an average hourly wage of $20.02 and an annual salary of $41,641.60, reflecting the local market and cost of living in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Modesto for Line Cooks
When exploring nearby localities, Line Cook salaries can differ somewhat:
- Downtown Modesto: $21.50 per hour
- North Modesto: $22.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in North Modesto can expect slightly higher wages compared to those in downtown, potentially due to differing demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Modesto?
Various factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Modesto. Some of the most significant include:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks proficient in cooking techniques and kitchen management typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Working night shifts or holidays may offer shift differentials, increasing wages.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in certain cuisines or kitchen equipment can enhance a Line Cook’s earning potential.
- Local Labor Market: Regional demand and cost of living in Modesto influence overall pay levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Modesto
Embarking on a career as a Line Cook in Modesto involves several important steps:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Modesto Junior College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training on culinary skills, food safety, and kitchen management.
- Practical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles is crucial to develop cooking proficiency.
- Certifications: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the California Food Handler Card demonstrates essential knowledge in food safety and is often mandatory.
- Additional Education: The Stanislaus County Office of Education Culinary Arts Program offers foundational knowledge and practical experience tailored for culinary professionals.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Modesto
Several well-known restaurant chains and eateries actively recruit Line Cooks in Modesto, including:
- Red Lobster
- Texas Roadhouse
- Chili's Grill & Bar
Establishments That Line Cooks in Modesto Work At
Line Cooks in Modesto work across a variety of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual chains, diners, and upscale eateries.
The type of establishment significantly affects earnings; for example, fine dining restaurants tend to offer higher pay compared to fast food or casual venues due to the skill and precision required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Modesto for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to being a Line Cook, you might consider roles with overlapping skills such as:
These include Chef de Partie, Cook, and Fry Cook positions, all of which share culinary skills and may offer varied salary opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Modesto
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations that affect their work and earnings. Key resources include:
- Information on California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations which govern wage rules, hours, and workplace safety.
- Resources from the California Employment Development Department - State employment services and information for workers’ compensation, unemployment, and tax requirements.
- Federal guidance available through the U.S. Department of Labor - Federal labor laws and resources regarding minimum wage, overtime, and employee rights.