Line Cook Salary in Newport News, VA
Line Cooks in Newport News, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.30 per hour, which translates to about $612.00 per week, $2,652.00 per month, and $31,824.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Newport News is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Newport News, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Newport News can vary depending on experience and employer, but generally follows this range across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.72 | $508.80 | $2,202.13 | $26,505.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.30 | $612.00 | $2,652.00 | $31,824.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.41 | $736.40 | $3,184.93 | $38,252.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Newport News Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing food. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Newport News vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $15.30 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $31,824 annually.
Line Cooks in Newport News earn close to the national average, with approximately $15.30 per hour and an annual salary of about $31,824. This suggests that pay rates in Newport News are in line with broader nationwide trends for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport News for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varying pay rates for Line Cooks, including:
- Kiln Creek: $17.50 per hour
- City Center: $16.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Kiln Creek have the advantage of higher hourly wages compared to those in City Center and Newport News proper, highlighting the impact of regional variation within commuting distance.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Newport News?
The salary of a Line Cook in Newport News is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or resorts often pays better compared to fast food or casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher demand for culinary staff or labor shortages can offer better compensation.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications and food safety qualifications can enhance salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Newport News
Breaking into the Line Cook profession in Newport News usually involves the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Thomas Nelson Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at ECPI University to build fundamental skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles and work your way up to mastering various cooking stations.
- Obtain Professional Recognition: Consider certifications such as Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate culinary competence.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Newport News
The following employers are known for hiring Line Cooks in the Newport News area:
- P.F. Chang's
- Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort
- Red Robin
Establishments That Line Cooks in Newport News Work At
Line Cooks can be found working in different types of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer consistent schedules but may have lower wage scales.
- Fast-Casual Chains: Typically provide steady work with potential for advancement, often at moderate pay.
- Resorts and Golf Clubs: Higher-end locations typically pay more and may offer tips or bonuses.
- Hotel Kitchens and Banquets: These venues may provide competitive wages plus benefits.
The choice of establishment impacts salary, job responsibilities, and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport News for Line Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to Line Cook, consider exploring these similar hospitality careers:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, offering different specializations within culinary operations and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Newport News
Line Cooks in Newport News should be aware of several labor laws and tax guidelines that affect their employment:
- Consult the federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and regulations.
- The Virginia state government site provides information on state-specific labor standards, minimum wage, and worker rights.
- For localized statutes and employment resources, visit the Newport News city government portal.