Line Cook Salary in Olathe, KS
Line Cooks in Olathe, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $15.95 per hour, which translates to about $638.00 per week, $2,764.67 per month, and $33,176.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Olathe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Olathe, KS?
The salary of a Line Cook in Olathe varies based on experience and skill level. Here's an overview of typical earnings at different stages of a Line Cook's career:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.29 | $491.60 | $2,128.53 | $25,523.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,633.33 | $31,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.92 | $756.80 | $3,276.27 | $39,353.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Olathe Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips directly since their work typically takes place in the kitchen rather than customer-facing settings. Their earnings are mainly derived from hourly wages or salaries.
Line Cook Salary in Olathe vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks make an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Olathe, KS, where the average Line Cook earns about $15.95 per hour and $33,176 annually, local wages are somewhat higher than the national average, reflecting regional cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Olathe for Line Cooks
Nearby areas paying higher salaries include:
- Leawood: $17.35 per hour
- Overland Park: $16.79 per hour
Line Cooks in Leawood enjoy the highest pay among the nearby locations, which could attract candidates willing to commute or relocate for better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Olathe?
Several factors contribute to a Line Cook's salary in Olathe:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens usually offers better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certification and Training: Certifications like ServSafe or culinary program credentials can increase earning potential.
- Shift Patterns: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher pay or shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: The growing food service industry in Olathe boosts salaries due to increased demand.
How To Become a Line Cook in Olathe
To start a career as a Line Cook in Olathe, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Local Culinary Programs: The Olathe Advanced Technical Center Culinary Arts Program offers award-winning training with hands-on experience in a modern commercial kitchen.
- Gain Practical Experience: Participating in real-world settings, such as Les Arts Culinaires—a fine dining experience operated by students—helps build relevant skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Certification and Certified Culinarian (CC) demonstrate knowledge of food safety and culinary basics, enhancing employability.
- Build a Strong Work Ethic: Reliability and teamwork skills are highly valued in kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Olathe
Some prominent employers seeking Line Cooks in Olathe include:
- Arrow Senior Living
- Summit Food Service
- First Watch
Establishments That Line Cooks in Olathe Work At
Line Cooks in Olathe typically work at a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work with moderate wages, often emphasizing diverse menus.
- Fast Casual eateries: Often provide faster-paced environments with potentially lower wages than upscale settings.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually pay competitive wages and offer opportunities for advancement.
- Senior Living Communities: Such as Arrow Senior Living, requiring consistent food preparation services.
The type of establishment often affects pay and benefits, with more formal and large-scale operations generally offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Olathe for Line Cooks
Those interested in careers similar to Line Cook might explore these related roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Prep Cook positions which share related culinary responsibilities and skillsets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Olathe
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work environment in Olathe:
- Federal labor laws can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Kansas-specific labor regulations and tax resources, visit the State of Kansas official website.
- The City of Olathe official website offers local employment resources and guidelines.