Line Cook Salary in Rio Rancho, NM
Line Cooks in Rio Rancho, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $16.40 per hour, which translates to about $656.00 per week, $2,842.67 per month, and $34,112.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Rio Rancho is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and restaurant industry expansion in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Rio Rancho, NM?
The salary of a Line Cook in Rio Rancho varies by experience level and the type of establishment, but the following breakdown provides a good overview of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.40 | $656.00 | $2,842.67 | $34,112.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.95 | $1,318.00 | $5,703.33 | $68,476.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Rio Rancho Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly, as tips are generally reserved for front-of-house staff like servers and bartenders. However, in some establishments, Line Cooks might receive small tip pools or shared gratuities, but this is not common or guaranteed.
Line Cook Salary in Rio Rancho, NM vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $16.40 per hour, which translates to roughly $34,112.00 per year.
The salary for Line Cooks in Rio Rancho matches the national average, reflecting a competitive wage rate consistent with industry standards across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rio Rancho for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks can earn higher wages include:
- Corrales: $35.83 per hour
- Santa Fe: $35.40 per hour
These locations offer more lucrative salaries, which may be influenced by cost of living or higher demand for culinary staff.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Rio Rancho?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Rio Rancho, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced cooks with advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Kitchen Role and Responsibilities: Those handling more complex stations or supervisory tasks may earn more.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts may pay premiums due to demand.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and food safety certifications can boost salary potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in Rio Rancho
Becoming a Line Cook in Rio Rancho involves developing culinary skills and gaining relevant experience. Here are some ways to start and advance in this role:
- Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive education covering cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Continuing Education: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Culinary Classes offer various courses tailored to different cuisines and skill levels, perfect for improving cooking methods.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial for meeting health standards and improving employability.
- Professional Certification: Earning credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation signals foundational culinary competence to employers.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Line Cooks start working in kitchens at entry levels such as prep cooks and progress by learning practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Rio Rancho
Several prominent employers in Rio Rancho actively seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services
- Leisure Care
- University of New Mexico
Establishments That Line Cooks in Rio Rancho Work At
Line Cooks work at a variety of foodservice establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay but steady work environments.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically offer lower wages but faster-paced work.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher pay and benefits for culinary staff.
- Healthcare and Educational Institutions: These settings emphasize consistent hours and often competitive wages.
The salary a Line Cook earns can vary widely based on the type of establishment, with higher-end or specialty venues generally offering better compensation compared to fast food operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rio Rancho for Line Cooks
For those interested in careers related to Line Cooking, several similar roles exist that offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
These include Head Chef, Kitchen Supervisor, and Fry Cook, all of which have variance in duties and pay levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Rio Rancho
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax responsibilities affecting their employment in Rio Rancho.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions offers local employment resources and labor law information.
- For local regulations and city services, check the City of Rio Rancho official website.