Line Cook in San Mateo, CA
Line Cooks in San Mateo, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in San Mateo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in San Mateo, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in San Mateo can vary based on experience and the employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in San Mateo Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their work is mainly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation primarily comes from their hourly wage or salary rather than tips.
Line Cook Salary in San Mateo vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in San Mateo earn significantly more, with an hourly wage of $18.00 and an annual salary of $37,440.00.
This higher pay can be attributed to San Mateo’s cost of living and the demand for culinary professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Mateo for Line Cooks
When exploring nearby areas, Line Cook salaries include:
- Downtown San Mateo: $19.00 per hour
- Baywood-Aragon: $18.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown San Mateo enjoy the highest hourly rates among the surrounding regions.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in San Mateo?
Several factors affect a Line Cook's salary in San Mateo:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants often offers better compensation than fast food or casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours: Night shifts or overtime hours may come with additional pay.
- Education and Certifications: Completing culinary courses or obtaining relevant certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Local Economic Factors: San Mateo’s living costs and restaurant scene influence wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in San Mateo
To become a Line Cook in San Mateo, consider these steps:
- Pursue Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the San Mateo County Community College District Culinary Arts Program or JobTrain Culinary Arts Program, which provide hands-on experience and vocational training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and California Food Handler Card are essential for compliance and employment.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions to build skills and progress.
- Build a Professional Network: Connect with local chefs and culinary professionals for mentorship and job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in San Mateo
Several prominent employers in San Mateo frequently hire Line Cooks, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in San Mateo Work At
Line Cooks are employed in various food service establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often offer entry-level wages and faster-paced environments.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: Provide moderate salaries and opportunities for skill development.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay higher wages reflecting skill requirements and complex cooking techniques.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer steady work and benefits with competitive pay.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the salary and growth opportunities available to a Line Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Mateo for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider these related careers:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, all of which require hands-on kitchen skills and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in San Mateo
Line Cooks should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws to ensure their rights and obligations are clear.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive legal information.
- Check the California state website for labor laws and workplace standards for applicable state-level guidance.
- Review resources available on the San Mateo County's official website for local regulations and resources.