Line Cook Salary in Renton, WA
Line Cooks in Renton, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.85 per hour, which translates to about $794.00 per week, $3,440.67 per month, and $41,288.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Renton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities and the evolving culinary scene in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Renton, WA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Renton depends on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of approximate earnings based on experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.38 | $655.20 | $2,831.20 | $33,062.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.85 | $794.00 | $3,440.67 | $41,288.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.05 | $962.00 | $4,159.33 | $49,984.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Renton Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work happens mainly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income mostly comes from their wage or salary without additional tipping revenue.
Line Cook Salary in Renton vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which is approximately $33,280.00 per year.
Comparing to the national average, Line Cooks in Renton earn more, with an hourly rate of $19.85 and annual earnings of around $41,288.00.
This higher pay may be influenced by the local cost of living, demand for qualified kitchen staff, and the vibrant food service industry around Renton.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Renton for Line Cooks
Nearby areas around Renton offer the following estimated hourly pay for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Renton: $21.00 per hour
- The Landing: $20.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Renton may provide slightly better compensation due to the concentration of restaurants and dining options in this area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Renton?
Several factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Renton:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Skilled Line Cooks with greater experience tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast casual or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might provide shift differentials that enhance earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications, food safety cards, and advanced training can boost salary potential.
- Local Demand and Competition: The demand for culinary staff and competition among employers in Renton affect salary levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Renton
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Renton involves several crucial steps:
- Complete Culinary Education or Training: Programs such as the Renton Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for roles like Line Cook.
- High School Culinary Courses: The Renton School District Culinary Arts Courses provide foundational knowledge in culinary arts, baking, and food preparation, great for beginners.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the Washington State Food Worker Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are often required by employers to ensure safe food handling.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting as a Kitchen Assistant or Prep Cook helps develop necessary skills and experience to progress to a Line Cook position.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Renton
Several notable employers in Renton regularly hire Line Cooks, including:
- Chateau Retirement Communities
- Sodexo
- Eurest
- Red Robin
- Ezell's Famous Chicken
Establishments That Line Cooks in Renton Work At
Line Cooks work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work hours but may have moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments focus on speed and efficiency, generally offering hourly pay around mid-level.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay higher wages and may offer benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Companies and Retirement Communities: These settings sometimes offer more consistent schedules and competitive salaries.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary and growth opportunities for a Line Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Renton for Line Cooks
If you're interested in exploring roles related to being a Line Cook, you might consider these similar careers:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Head Chef, all closely related culinary roles with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Renton
Line Cooks in Renton should be familiar with labor laws and tax obligations:
- For information on Washington state's labor laws, workplace safety, and workers' rights, visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- To learn about federal labor laws, wage regulations, and employment opportunities, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers comprehensive resources.