Line Cook Salary in Oak Park, IL
Line Cooks in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.20 per hour, which translates to about $648.00 per week, $2,808.00 per month, and $33,696.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Oak Park is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects for individuals pursuing a career in this field.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Oak Park varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,427.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.20 | $648.00 | $2,808.00 | $33,696.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes with limited direct customer interaction. Their income mainly consists of their wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, equating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Oak Park earn slightly more, at about $16.20 per hour and $33,696 annually, reflecting regional economic factors and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay rates for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown Oak Park: $18.34 per hour
- Oak Brook: $22.00 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate to these areas might find better salary opportunities in the culinary field.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Oak Park:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks generally command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in various cooking techniques and certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than fast casual or casual dining outlets.
- Shift Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with premium pay.
- Local Demand: Economic conditions and demand for culinary professionals in Oak Park influence salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Oak Park
Pursuing a career as a Line Cook involves several strategic steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program and Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute in Chicago offer comprehensive training tailored for aspiring cooks.
- Obtain Key Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation are valuable credentials in this field.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships can provide hands-on experience and skill development.
Formal education combined with certifications can position candidates for better job prospects and salary growth.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Oak Park
Some notable employers in Oak Park actively seeking Line Cooks include:
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
- Wingstop
- Olive Garden
- Portillo's
- Noodles & Company
Establishments That Line Cooks in Oak Park Work At
Line Cooks in Oak Park commonly work in a range of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady work with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These venues may provide busy environments with competitive hourly rates but less opportunity for tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay higher wages and demand advanced cooking skills.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These might offer benefits and a professional environment with higher salaries.
Where a Line Cook works can significantly influence their overall compensation and career advancement potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Line Cook
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider these related positions:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Cook positions, which share responsibilities and skills with a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Oak Park
Line Cooks in Oak Park should stay informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities impacting their work.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal employment standards.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security offers resources on state-specific labor laws and workforce programs.
- For local regulations and community information, check the Oak Park official website.