Line Cook Salary in Rockford, IL
Line Cooks in Rockford, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Rockford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Rockford can vary based on experience and employer, but below is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Rockford Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their primary role involves food preparation in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes entirely from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Rockford, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, translating to about $31,200 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Rockford earn slightly higher wages, with an average of $16.50 per hour and $34,320 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Line Cooks
Nearby areas with relatively higher pay for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $17.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in these locations may benefit from better compensation due to higher restaurant volume or upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Rockford?
Various factors affect the salary of a Line Cook in Rockford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with knowledge of diverse cuisines or multitasking abilities tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-volume restaurants generally offers greater compensation than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or late-night shifts may come with shift differentials, increasing hourly wages.
- Certifications: Holding certifications related to food safety can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Local Market Demand: The current demand for culinary staff in Rockford also plays a role in wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Rockford
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Rockford, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of DuPage or Culinary Arts and Food Management at Southwestern Illinois College. These programs provide comprehensive kitchen skills and food preparation techniques.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required in Illinois to ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Experience: Start by working in entry-level kitchen positions or internships to build practical experience.
- Complete Additional Certifications: Consider pursuing the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate your culinary skills and improve employability.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Rockford
Several well-known employers in Rockford frequently hire for Line Cook positions, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront
- McDonald's
- Chili's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Rockford Work At
Line Cooks in Rockford typically work at a variety of establishments, such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual spots, hotels, and catering companies.
The type of establishment influences salary, with upscale or busy locations often paying more. For example, working in a hotel restaurant or a higher-end casual dining venue can offer higher wages and better benefits than fast-food chains.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Line Cooks
If you're interested in similar career paths within hospitality, the following roles share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Commis Chef positions, each with progressively more responsibility and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Rockford
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their work.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal employment and wage laws.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides state-specific employment rights and resources.
- For local ordinances and services in Rockford, visit Rockford's official government website.