Line Cook Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Line Cooks in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Santa Fe is growing at about 6% per year, indicating a positive job outlook with expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and dining industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Line Cook in Santa Fe varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,633.33 | $31,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than serving customers directly. Their earnings are primarily through their hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Santa Fe earn slightly more per hour and annually, reflecting the local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Line Cooks
Some of the highest-paying nearby areas for Line Cooks in Santa Fe include:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Railyard District: $17.00 per hour
Working in these districts often comes with higher pay, reflecting higher-end establishments and larger hospitality venues.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Line Cook in Santa Fe:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks earn higher wages due to their developed skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Specialization: Familiarity with specific cuisines or advanced cooking techniques can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels tend to pay better than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may offer shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Santa Fe’s living costs and tourism influence wage levels in the hospitality sector.
How To Become a Line Cook in Santa Fe
Becoming a skilled Line Cook in Santa Fe involves several steps and opportunities for training:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive training including hands-on and theoretical knowledge.
- Specialized Cooking Classes: Consider the Santa Fe School of Cooking for courses focusing on Southwestern cuisine and cooking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification improve job prospects by demonstrating knowledge of food safety.
- Fulfill Regulatory Permits: The New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit is required for those serving alcohol, ensuring responsible service awareness.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s diverse dining scene offers opportunities at several well-regarded establishments, including:
- La Fonda on the Plaza
- The Shed
- Geronimo
Establishments That Line Cooks in Santa Fe Work At
Line Cooks in Santa Fe find employment across many types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady schedules, but generally moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Usually providing entry-level opportunities with hourly pay on the lower side.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher pay rates reflecting skill demands and complex menu preparations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offering better wages and benefits, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Santa Fe.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Line Cook’s salary, experience gained, and advancement prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Line Cook, consider positions that share similar culinary skills and job responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Santa Fe
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Line Cooks in Santa Fe to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Information on federal labor regulations can be accessed through the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- State-specific labor information for New Mexico is available at the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.