Line Cook Salary in Pittsburgh, PA
Line Cooks in Pittsburgh, PA, in 2026, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Pittsburgh is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Pittsburgh, PA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Pittsburgh varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.93 | $597.20 | $2,583.47 | $31,046.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.70 | $868.00 | $3,750.67 | $45,136.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Pittsburgh Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing dishes rather than directly serving customers. Their earnings mostly come from base pay and hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.19 per hour, which translates to around $35,755.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Pittsburgh make slightly more, earning approximately $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually. This reflects competitive local demand and cost of living in Pittsburgh.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pittsburgh for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods and their average hourly pay for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown: $21.15 per hour
- Strip District: $20.07 per hour
Those working downtown tend to earn the highest wages, likely due to higher-end dining establishments and greater restaurant traffic in this area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Pittsburgh?
Several factors significantly impact how much a Line Cook earns in Pittsburgh:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with expertise in various cooking techniques or cuisines usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels typically pay more than casual or fast-food eateries.
- Shift Timings: Working evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications or food safety training can enhance earning potential.
- Location: Restaurants in busier or more affluent neighborhoods often offer better salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Pittsburgh
Starting a career as a Line Cook involves several practical steps and education opportunities:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Community College of Allegheny County Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate of Science in Culinary Arts providing valuable hands-on training.
- Consider Specialized Schools: The Pennsylvania Culinary Institute delivers comprehensive culinary education focusing on classical and modern cooking techniques.
- Get Food Safety Certified: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial for most food service positions.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate foundational culinary skills and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in kitchen assistant roles or internships can help build skills and get hired as a Line Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Pittsburgh
Some of the major employers frequently seeking Line Cooks in Pittsburgh include:
- Mis en Place
- UPMC
- Houlihan's Restaurants Inc
- Twin Peaks Restaurants
- Eddie V's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Pittsburgh Work At
Line Cooks find employment across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often hire entry-level cooks with moderate wages but regular hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require higher skill levels and offer higher pay scales and tips.
- Fast-Casual and Quick-Service: These operate at a fast pace, may offer lower base pay but provide valuable experience.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: Employ Line Cooks for larger-scale food preparation that can come with better benefits and steady pay.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary as well as career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pittsburgh for Line Cook
If you are interested in related culinary roles, consider these similar careers:
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, which share related skills and career pathways in culinary arts.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Pittsburgh
Line Cooks should be aware of important state and federal regulations that affect their workplace rights and taxes.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry site for information on labor laws and employee rights.
- Refer to the Internal Revenue Service for federal tax guidelines and requirements.
- For workplace safety standards, consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.