Line Cook Salary in Pasadena, CA
Line Cooks in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.86 per hour, equating to about $794.40 per week, $3,442.40 per month, and $41,308.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Pasadena is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities within the city's bustling culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Pasadena varies based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.83 | $673.20 | $2,914.40 | $34,972.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.86 | $794.40 | $3,442.40 | $41,308.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.44 | $937.60 | $4,063.73 | $48,755.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work occurs primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is generally derived from wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.86 per hour and around $37,148.80 per year.
In comparison, Line Cooks in Pasadena earn a higher hourly rate of $19.86 and annual pay of approximately $41,308.80, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods in Pasadena offer competitive salaries for Line Cooks:
- Old Pasadena: $21.50 per hour
- South Lake Avenue District: $22.00 per hour
These areas generally see slightly higher wages, which may be due to more upscale dining establishments and greater demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Pasadena?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Pasadena:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Line Cooks with advanced culinary techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Certification and Education: Completion of culinary training or certifications can enhance pay prospects.
- Work Shift and Hours: Evening or overnight shifts might include pay differentials, boosting salary.
- Local Market Demand: Pasadena’s vibrant food scene and tourism influence wage levels positively.
How To Become a Line Cook in Pasadena
To build a career as a Line Cook in Pasadena, consider the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Certified Culinarian Associate in Science Degree or the Certified Baker Certificate of Achievement program at Pasadena City College to develop foundational and specialized cooking skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by local employers to ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in kitchens as an apprentice or prep cook to build hands-on skills and culinary knowledge.
- Develop Essential Kitchen Skills: Focus on speed, organization, knife skills, and working under pressure to excel as a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Pasadena
Several prominent employers actively hire Line Cooks in Pasadena, including:
- Langham Hotel
- Yard House
- True Food Kitchen
Establishments That Line Cooks in Pasadena Work At
Line Cooks in Pasadena are generally found in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide opportunities for advancement but may pay less comparatively.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: These venues tend to offer higher pay rates reflecting skill demands and standards.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can offer varied schedules and competitive pay depending on the event scale.
The type of establishment plays an important role in the salary a Line Cook can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Line Cooks
Those interested in similar roles can explore alternatives within the hospitality and culinary sectors.
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, which share culinary skills and offer different responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Pasadena
Line Cooks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair employment practices and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The California state website provides detailed information on workplace regulations at dir.ca.gov.
- Local resources for workers and businesses are available through the City of Pasadena official website.