Line Cook Salary in Norman, OK
Line Cooks in Norman, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $15.01 per hour, which translates to about $600.40 per week, $2,601.73 per month, and $31,220.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Norman is growing steadily at about 5% per year, suggesting a positive outlook with increasing opportunities in the local culinary field.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Norman, OK?
The salary of a Line Cook in Norman varies by experience and skill level but generally falls within the following range.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.25 | $450.00 | $1,950.00 | $23,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.32 | $572.80 | $2,471.47 | $29,785.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,149.33 | $37,817.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Norman Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as they primarily work in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their earnings come from their set wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Norman vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which is roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Norman earn slightly above average with a median wage of $15.01 per hour and an annual salary nearing $31,220.80.
This difference could be influenced by local economic factors and demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Line Cooks
Within the Norman area, specific neighborhoods offer higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Norman: $16.50 per hour
- University Area: $17.00 per hour
Those working in these parts may find better pay rates, reflecting the concentration of dining establishments and customer base.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Norman?
Several important factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Norman.
- Experience and Skill: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels may come with better pay than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Specialized Techniques: Knowledge of certain cuisines or kitchen equipment can increase earnings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might pay extra through shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Areas with a booming dining scene often offer higher salaries due to competition for skilled cooks.
How To Become a Line Cook in Norman
Becoming a successful Line Cook in Norman involves a mix of education and hands-on experience.
Culinary training programs offered nearby include:
- Francis Tuttle Technology Center: Located in nearby Oklahoma City, Francis Tuttle offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts program that equips students with essential skills in food preparation, presentation, and kitchen management.
- Platt College: With a campus in Moore, close to Norman, Platt College offers a diploma program in Culinary Arts focusing on practical skills and culinary techniques, typically completed in about a year.
Licenses and certifications are valuable for boosting job prospects and include:
- Food Handler’s License: Often required to work as a cook or chef, this license ensures knowledge of food safety practices and can be obtained online for a nominal fee.
- American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification: Offers various certifications that can boost career prospects by validating culinary skills and knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Norman
Culinary professionals looking for employment in Norman often find opportunities at notable establishments such as:
- Crab & Catfish - Seafood & Social
- Velvet Taco
- Levy Sector
Establishments That Line Cooks in Norman Work At
Line Cooks are employed across a variety of establishments in Norman, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady hours but generally moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Focus on quick service, sometimes with lower wages compared to full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide better pay and potential benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: Tend to pay higher salaries, reflecting the elevated skill requirements.
The specific type of establishment can significantly affect a Line Cook’s salary and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman for Line Cooks
Those interested in similar culinary and hospitality roles may consider related positions that share skills and career pathways.
These include Head Chef, Fry Cook, and Cook positions, all of which may complement or build on the experience gained as a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Norman
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws to understand their rights, pay standards, and tax obligations.
- Information on federal labor regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific state laws and employment services, the State of Oklahoma’s official website offers valuable resources.