Line Cook Salary in Seattle, WA
Line Cooks in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.38 per hour, which translates to about $935.20 per week, $4,052.53 per month, and $48,630.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary workforce.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Seattle can vary depending on experience and workplace, but here is a general overview 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 Seattle Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mainly happens behind the scenes and they typically do not have direct interaction with customers. Their earnings consist mainly of their salary or hourly wages rather than tips.
Line Cook Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Seattle earn significantly more, at about $23.38 per hour and $48,630.40 annually.
This increase is likely due to the higher living costs and increased demand for kitchen staff in Seattle's vibrant food service industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Line Cooks
In nearby neighborhoods, Line Cook salaries are slightly higher:
- Capitol Hill: $23.50 per hour
- Belltown: $24.00 per hour
These areas offer Line Cooks opportunities to earn wages above the Seattle average, reflecting the demand and dining culture in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors affect what a Line Cook can expect to earn in Seattle:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Line Cooks or those with extensive experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and specialty dining venues often pay more compared to fast casual or chain restaurants.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might provide additional compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education and certifications can improve job prospects and salary.
- Local Cost of Living: Seattle’s higher cost of living generally translates into higher wages for culinary professionals.
How To Become a Line Cook in Seattle
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Seattle, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Attend institutions like the Seattle Culinary Academy for hands-on culinary programs or Escoffier Online Culinary School to gain flexible training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the Washington State Food Worker Card and the ServSafe Certification are often mandatory and demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions to learn basic skills and progress to Line Cook roles.
- Build a Professional Network: Collaborate with local chefs and industry professionals to find job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Seattle
Seattle hosts a range of notable employers actively recruiting Line Cooks, including:
- Four Seasons
- The Rainier Club
- E3 Co. Restaurant Group
- Canlis
- Sand Point Country Club
Establishments That Line Cooks in Seattle Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Offer consistent work but usually moderate pay.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Typically provide higher wages and opportunities to develop culinary skills.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Often pay competitive salaries and may offer benefits.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can provide diverse experiences and varying pay scales.
The establishment type significantly affects the earning potential and career growth for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to a Line Cook, you might also consider the following similar careers:
These positions include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, which are related culinary roles with differing responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Seattle
Line Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure their rights and financial obligations are managed properly.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website provides resources on state labor laws, workplace safety, and worker protections.
- For city-specific labor ordinances and employment standards, visit the City of Seattle official website.