Line Cook Salary in Rochester, MN
Line Cooks in Rochester, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $16.57 per hour, which translates to about $662.80 per week, $2,872.13 per month, and $34,465.60 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks is positive with a steady growth of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary professionals in Rochester and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Line Cook in Rochester can vary based on experience, skill, and type of employer. Below is an overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.65 | $506.00 | $2,192.33 | $26,300.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.57 | $662.80 | $2,872.13 | $34,465.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.70 | $868.00 | $3,753.33 | $45,136.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Rochester Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation behind the scenes. Their income usually comes solely from their wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Rochester earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $16.57 and a yearly salary of $34,465.60.
The difference may reflect local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Line Cooks
Looking at areas near Rochester, salary variations exist:
- Downtown Rochester: $17.50 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $16.75 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Rochester generally earn slightly more compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Rochester?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook earns in Rochester:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with advanced cooking techniques and years of kitchen experience tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher pay.
- Culinary Training or Certifications: Formal education and certificates can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand: High demand for culinary staff in Rochester influences wages positively.
How To Become a Line Cook in Rochester
Starting a career as a Line Cook involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs like the Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills, food safety, and kitchen management.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Southeast Minnesota Technical College Culinary Program provides practical cooking techniques, menu planning, and hospitality management experience.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification emphasize food safety, and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates foundational culinary skills.
- Start in Entry-Level Kitchen Positions: Working as a prep cook or kitchen helper helps build essential skills.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Rochester
Several major employers in Rochester actively hire Line Cooks, including:
- Morrison Healthcare
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Mayo Clinic
- Oak View Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Rochester Work At
Line Cooks find employment in various establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically have moderate wages and less demanding culinary skills requirements.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have fast-paced work environments with somewhat lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: Usually offer higher salaries reflecting demanding cooking standards and skills.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Places like Mayo Clinic provide stable jobs with competitive wages.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary, with upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Line Cooks
If you're considering roles similar to Line Cook, here are a few related hospitality positions:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, which share similar culinary responsibilities and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Rochester
Line Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their work in Rochester: