Line Cook Salary in San Antonio, TX
Line Cooks in San Antonio, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in San Antonio is positive, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, signaling a steady demand for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in San Antonio, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in San Antonio varies based on experience and qualifications. Below is a breakdown of average pay across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in San Antonio Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mostly takes place in the kitchen away from customers. Their compensation is usually limited to hourly wages, although some restaurants might offer incentives or tip pools shared with kitchen staff.
Line Cook Salary in San Antonio vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average hourly salary of about $14.50, resulting in approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in San Antonio earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, and the yearly salary reflects this with an average of $28,912. Lower living costs in San Antonio likely contribute to this modest difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Antonio for Line Cooks
Certain areas near San Antonio offer higher pay for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Alamo Heights: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in Alamo Heights can expect to earn more, possibly due to the upscale dining options in the neighborhood.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in San Antonio?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Line Cook in San Antonio:
- Experience Level: More experienced cooks usually earn higher wages than entry-level workers.
- Skill Set: Cooks with expertise in various cuisines or cooking techniques can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services often pay more than fast-food or casual dining chains.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those working night shifts or weekends might receive shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications or food safety permits can influence hiring and salary offers.
How To Become a Line Cook in San Antonio
Starting a career as a Line Cook in San Antonio involves several steps to build skills and credibility:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: San Antonio hosts reputable culinary schools like the Culinary Arts Program at St. Philip's College, accredited by the American Culinary Federation, offering hands-on training.
- Seek Professional Education: The Culinary Institute of America, San Antonio specializes in Latin cuisines, providing focused culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Essential credentials include the Food Handler's Permit, mandatory in Texas, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification for food safety knowledge.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Entry-level positions help build practical cooking skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in San Antonio
If you’re looking for work as a Line Cook in San Antonio, you can consider applying to well-known employers such as:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in San Antonio Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: Usually provide steady work but tend to offer lower wages.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer moderate pay and opportunities for skill development.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Often pay higher salaries and expect greater culinary expertise.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: May offer competitive wages and benefits due to larger operations.
The establishment type significantly affects earning potential, as higher-end venues generally offer better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Antonio for Line Cooks
If you’re interested in roles related to being a Line Cook, consider careers with overlapping skills and responsibilities. Here are a few similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, roles that share culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in San Antonio
Line Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment in San Antonio and Texas:
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check the Texas Workforce Commission site for state-specific employment and labor law resources.
- Consult the City of San Antonio’s official site for local regulations and employment services.