Line Cook Salary in Richmond, VA
Line Cooks in Richmond, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.02 per hour, translating to about $680.80 per week, $2,950.13 per month, and $35,401.60 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Richmond is growing at an estimated rate of 5% per year, indicating positive demand for culinary professionals in the city’s vibrant food industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Richmond, VA?
Compensation for Line Cooks in Richmond varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for various career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.39 | $575.60 | $2,491.73 | $29,900.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.02 | $680.80 | $2,950.13 | $35,401.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.14 | $805.60 | $3,484.27 | $41,891.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Richmond Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not receive tips directly since tips are typically distributed among front-of-house staff. However, some kitchens have tip pooling systems that may provide Line Cooks with a modest additional income, though this is not guaranteed. Expect that tips, if any, would be minimal and vary widely by establishment.
Line Cook Salary in Richmond vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.02 per hour or roughly $35,401.60 per year.
Richmond’s average Line Cook salary matches the national average closely, keeping the city competitive for culinary labor while factoring in local living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Richmond for Line Cooks
Nearby locations offer the following hourly wages for Line Cooks:
- Ashland: $17.54 per hour
- Midlothian: $16.71 per hour
Ashland boasts slightly higher wages than Richmond itself, while Midlothian offers slightly less, but all remain competitive within the region.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Richmond?
Various factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Richmond, including:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with culinary training or specialized skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Jobs in upscale restaurants or hotels tend to offer higher pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may include shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food Safety and ServSafe certifications can boost employability and wages.
- Local Demand: High demand for kitchen staff in Richmond’s growing food scene encourages better compensation.
How To Become a Line Cook in Richmond
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Richmond involves several important steps:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Consider programs such as the Culinary Arts at ECPI University or the Baking and Pastry Arts at ECPI University, which provide hands-on skills and kitchen management knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly recommended for working in any food service environment.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs or internships can provide valuable on-the-job training.
- Pursue Entry-Level Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation can enhance career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Richmond
Several key employers looking for skilled Line Cooks in Richmond include:
- McDonald's
- Mellow Mushroom
- The Country Club of Virginia
Establishments That Line Cooks in Richmond Work At
Line Cooks in Richmond typically work in a variety of settings including:
- Fast Food Chains: Offer entry-level wages but high-volume experience.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay more than fast food and provide skill development.
- Fine Dining or Upscale Restaurants: Usually pay higher wages and may require advanced culinary skills.
- Country Clubs or Hotels: May offer higher salaries and benefits reflecting the upscale clientele.
The type of establishment significantly affects the earning potential and the work environment for a Line Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Richmond for Line Cooks
If you are considering related career paths in the hospitality sector near Richmond, here are a few possibilities:
These include Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook roles, which share similar culinary skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Richmond
Line Cooks should be aware of labor regulations and tax responsibilities relevant to their work in Richmond. Useful resources include:
- U.S. Department of Labor, providing federal labor laws and wage regulations.
- Commonwealth of Virginia official website for state-specific labor laws and employment services.