Line Cook Salary in Portland, ME
Line Cooks in Portland, ME, earn approximately $22.25 per hour, which translates to about $890.00 per week, $3,856.67 per month, and $46,280.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook with opportunities increasing annually.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of a Line Cook in Portland can vary depending on experience and employer, but the table below illustrates typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Portland Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes and focused on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come solely from their wages.
Line Cook Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440.00 per year.
Comparatively, Line Cooks in Portland, ME, earn more than the national average, with an hourly rate of about $22.25 and an annual salary of $46,280.00. This premium likely reflects local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Line Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Line Cooks can expect the following hourly pay:
- South Portland: $22.30 per hour
- Scarborough: $22.22 per hour
South Portland offers the highest pay among nearby locations, slightly outpacing Scarborough and Portland itself.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors can affect the salary of a Line Cook in Portland, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications may increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials boosting pay.
- Location: Salaries may vary across different neighborhoods and cities surrounding Portland.
How To Become a Line Cook in Portland
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Portland involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Southern Maine Community College offer comprehensive training in food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen management.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Acquiring the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices, highly valued by employers.
- Consider Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation is a valuable credential demonstrating foundational culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Starting as a prep cook or kitchen assistant helps develop skills on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Portland
Several local employers are actively seeking Line Cooks, including:
- CBG Bar and Grill
- Bread & Friends
- Regards
Establishments That Line Cooks in Portland Work At
Line Cooks find employment across a variety of establishments such as casual dining, fast-casual restaurants, and fine dining venues.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the type of establishment. For example, fine dining restaurants tend to offer higher wages and better benefits compared to fast-casual or casual eateries, which often pay closer to minimum wage but may provide more flexible hours.
Additionally, working in hotel kitchens or larger catering companies can sometimes yield higher pay due to the volume and scale of operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Line Cooks
If you are considering careers similar to Line Cook, the following roles might interest you:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, each requiring progressive culinary experience and offering distinct salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Portland
Line Cooks should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their working conditions and compensation in Portland.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Maine for state labor laws including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources on employment laws and regulations.