Line Cook Salary in Reno, NV
Line Cooks in Reno, NV, in 2025, earn approximately $19.25 per hour, which is around $770.00 per week, $3,336.67 per month, and $40,040.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Reno is positive, with employment expected to grow by about 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Reno, NV?
The salary of a Line Cook in Reno varies depending on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings for different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.17 | $646.80 | $2,808.40 | $33,700.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.25 | $770.00 | $3,304.17 | $40,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.91 | $916.40 | $3,949.87 | $47,560.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Reno Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes, focused on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are primarily from their wages.
Line Cook Salary in Reno vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.02 per hour and approximately $37,481.60 per year.
Comparing this with Reno, Line Cooks earn slightly more on average at $19.25 per hour and $40,040.00 annually, reflecting local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Reno for Line Cooks
Nearby areas often offer competitive salaries varying slightly from Reno:
- Minden: $19.02 per hour
- Gardnerville: $18.57 per hour
Line Cooks considering commuting options may find similar wage levels in these nearby towns.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Reno?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Reno:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Line Cooks with culinary skills and knowledge of various cooking techniques often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and resorts tend to offer better salaries compared to quick-service or casual dining outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with additional pay differential.
- Specialized Skills: Ability to handle specific cuisines or cooking methods can add to salary potential.
- Local Market Demand: Changes in tourism and hospitality industries in Reno impact demand and compensation.
How To Become a Line Cook in Reno
Becoming a Line Cook in Reno involves a blend of education, training, and practical experience:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Truckee Meadows Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides hands-on and theoretical knowledge in culinary arts.
- Take Culinary Courses: The University of Nevada, Reno Extended Studies Culinary Courses offer specialized training in various cooking techniques and cuisines.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and ensures knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Earn Professional Culinary Credentials: Certifications offered by the American Culinary Federation validate skills and experience that can boost employability and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Reno
Several prominent employers in Reno frequently recruit skilled Line Cooks:
- Red Robin
- McDonald's
- J Resort
Establishments That Line Cooks in Reno Work At
Line Cooks find opportunities in a variety of dining establishments in Reno, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady shifts and competitive wages depending on location and clientele.
- Fast Casual Outlets: These can offer faster-paced work environments with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide better pay and benefits, along with opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Positions here may come with higher wages based on skills and experience required.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, work conditions, and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Reno for Line Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to a Line Cook, there are several careers in hospitality that might interest you, providing a range of responsibilities and salary scales.
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Head Chef, each with differing job duties and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Reno
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Line Cooks in Reno to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Learn about federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Nevada state-specific labor laws and workplace safety regulations, visit the Nevada Department of Business and Industry, Division of Industrial Relations website.
