Line Cook in Omaha, NE
Line Cooks in Omaha, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $17.82 per hour, which translates to about $712.80 per week, $3,088.80 per month, and $37,065.60 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks in Omaha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook for those pursuing or advancing in this culinary career in the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Omaha, NE?
The salary of a Line Cook in Omaha varies based on experience and employer type. Below is an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.82 | $712.80 | $3,084.80 | $37,065.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.47 | $858.80 | $3,731.47 | $44,617.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Omaha Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Omaha vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.82 per hour, which is equivalent to $37,065.60 yearly.
Line Cooks in Omaha earn around the national average, reflecting a competitive wage scale consistent with the broader market across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Omaha for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varying wages for Line Cooks:
- North Platte: $17.90 per hour
- Lincoln: $17.68 per hour
While North Platte offers a slightly higher hourly rate, salaries in Lincoln are comparable to Omaha, giving prospective Line Cooks options for employment within reasonable commuting distances.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Omaha?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Omaha.
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Line Cooks who know various cooking techniques and work efficiently tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than fast casual or casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications or culinary training may provide a wage boost.
- Local Cost of Living: Omaha’s moderate cost of living influences wage standards in the city.
How To Become a Line Cook in Omaha
Becoming a Line Cook in Omaha can be achieved by following several steps.
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider culinary programs like the No More Empty Pots Culinary Certificate Program, which offers hands-on culinary skills and workforce readiness training. This program is accredited by the Nebraska Department of Education and includes ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
- Get Certified: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required for food service jobs, including Line Cooks.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles, such as prep cook, to build skills and knowledge.
- Network and Continue Learning: Engage with local culinary groups and pursue additional training to advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Omaha
Omaha has a variety of establishments regularly hiring Line Cooks, including:
- The Players Club
- LOLA'S
- P.F. Chang's
- McDonald's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Omaha Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a variety of settings, each affecting earnings differently:
- Casual Dining: Offers regular hours but modest pay scales compared to upscale restaurants.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Emphasize quick service; may have faster-paced work with moderate pay.
- Fine Dining: High skill demand with corresponding better wages, and more opportunities for tips in related front-of-house positions.
- Catering and Banquet Services: These can provide variable opportunities but may offer higher pay for special events.
The type and prestige of the establishment play a significant role in a Line Cook’s earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Omaha for Line Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Line Cook, consider the following positions with similar skills and career paths.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Head Chef positions, which share culinary skills with Line Cooks but vary in responsibilities and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Omaha
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Line Cooks working in Omaha.
- For general labor laws and federal employment regulations, visit the Federal Department of Labor website.
- For Nebraska-specific labor laws, wage guidelines, and resources, consult the Nebraska Department of Labor website.