Line Cook Salary in Paterson, NJ
Line Cooks in Paterson, NJ, in 2026, earn approximately $17.96 per hour, which translates to about $718.40 per week, $3,113.07 per month, and $37,356.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Paterson is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and steady opportunities for those interested in culinary roles in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Paterson, NJ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Paterson varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview of wages at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,513.33 | $30,145.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.96 | $718.40 | $3,113.07 | $37,356.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.28 | $891.20 | $3,843.73 | $46,342.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Paterson Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their earnings come from their wages rather than direct customer gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Paterson vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Paterson earn about $17.96 per hour and $37,356.80 annually, which is notably higher. This reflects the local cost of living and demand for culinary staff in Paterson.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Paterson for Line Cooks
Some of the nearby employers offering above-average pay for Line Cooks include:
- St. Joseph's Health: $22.28 per hour
- Applebee's (Totowa, NJ): $19.25 per hour
Working near these locations can provide better wages for Line Cooks compared to typical salaries in Paterson.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Paterson?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks who demonstrate proficiency with various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment tend to earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Salaries vary between quick-service restaurants, casual dining, and fine dining establishments. Higher-end restaurants typically offer better pay.
Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials or overtime pay boosting overall income.
Certifications and Education: Culinary certifications and food safety training can impact salary positively.
Local Economic Conditions: Paterson's culinary job market and cost of living influence the salary range substantially.
How To Become a Line Cook in Paterson
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Paterson, aspiring individuals can consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Facilities like Passaic County Technical Institute's School of Culinary Arts offer concentrations in Culinary Arts with opportunities for apprenticeships and certifications such as ProStart and ServSafe.
- Attend Comprehensive Programs: The Culinary School at Eva's Village provides wide-ranging culinary training, covering cooking techniques, baking, and internships that prepare students for kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Training and the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement strengthen employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or internships in restaurants provide hands-on experience crucial for skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Paterson
Some of the prominent employers looking for skilled Line Cooks in Paterson and nearby areas include:
- St. Joseph's Health
- Applebee's (Totowa, NJ)
- The Cheesecake Factory (Wayne, NJ)
- IHOP
- MCC USA
Establishments That Line Cooks in Paterson Work At
Line Cooks in Paterson typically work in a variety of establishments such as casual dining, fast casual, family restaurants, and catering kitchens.
The salary can vary depending on the establishment type; for example, fine dining restaurants or large healthcare facilities like St. Joseph's Health often pay higher wages compared to smaller or chain fast casual restaurants.
Working at well-established or branded restaurants may provide better benefits and opportunities for advancement, thereby influencing overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Paterson for Line Cooks
If you are exploring roles related to Line Cook, you might consider these similar hospitality positions:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Head Chef positions, all of which share culinary skills and may offer varied salary ranges and career growth potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Paterson
Understanding local and federal labor laws is essential for Line Cooks to ensure fair work practices and compliance with tax regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor law information.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- To access local government information, including employment ordinances specific to Paterson, see the Official website of the City of Paterson, NJ.