Line Cook Salary in Norfolk, VA
Line Cooks in Norfolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.13 per hour, which translates to about $645.20 per week, $2,795.87 per month, and $33,550.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the culinary sector.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Norfolk can vary based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings by experience tier.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.84 | $513.60 | $2,224.80 | $26,697.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.13 | $645.20 | $2,795.87 | $33,550.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.25 | $810.00 | $3,510.00 | $42,120.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Norfolk Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as they are kitchen staff primarily responsible for food preparation and cooking, with limited direct customer interaction.
Line Cook Salary in Norfolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn around $17.92 per hour, which amounts to about $37,273.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Norfolk earn slightly less at $16.13 per hour and $33,550.40 yearly. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salary opportunities for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Ghent: $18.00 per hour
Working in Ghent can offer a slightly higher hourly wage for Line Cooks compared to Downtown, presenting options for those willing to commute or relocate within the Norfolk area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several factors impact the salary of a Line Cook in Norfolk:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More skilled and experienced Line Cooks command higher pay due to efficiency and recipe execution expertise.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer better wages compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Line Cooks working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may receive shift differentials increasing their earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary training or food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: High demand in Norfolk's thriving hospitality scene can push wages upward.
How To Become a Line Cook in Norfolk
Starting as a Line Cook in Norfolk involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Consider programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College or the Culinary Institute of Virginia, which provide hands-on training and knowledge in food preparation, nutrition, and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health regulations and are often mandatory in kitchens.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships help build foundational skills needed for Line Cook positions.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: Certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) can demonstrate your skill level to employers and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Norfolk
Some prominent employers currently hiring Line Cooks in Norfolk include:
- Olive Garden
- Chef's Kitchen & Cocktails
- Chipotle
Establishments That Line Cooks in Norfolk Work At
Line Cooks can be found working in a variety of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady employment but often offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Emphasis on quick service with consistent hours; salaries can vary.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often offer higher pay reflecting greater skill requirements and complexity of menu items.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Opportunities for Line Cooks who want to work in larger scale operations with potential benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects the salary, with fine dining and hospitality chains generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Line Cooks
If you're exploring similar roles in the hospitality industry, consider these positions related to Line Cooks:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which involve comparable skills and may offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Norfolk
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on federal employment standards, wages, and workplace regulations.
- Check the Virginia state government website for state-specific labor laws, including minimum wage, overtime rules, and worker protections.