Line Cook Salary in Silver Spring, MD
Line Cooks in Silver Spring, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $17.45 per hour, which translates to about $698.00 per week, $3,024.67 per month, and $36,296.00 per year.
The job demand for Line Cooks is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating positive employment prospects in the food service industry in Silver Spring and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Silver Spring, MD?
The salary for a Line Cook in Silver Spring can vary based on experience level, skills, and type of employer. Below is a breakdown by experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.35 | $614.00 | $2,653.33 | $31,976.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.45 | $698.00 | $3,024.67 | $36,296.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.84 | $793.60 | $3,416.53 | $41,267.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Silver Spring Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation in the kitchen rather than customer interaction. Their compensation typically comes from their hourly wages without additional tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Silver Spring, MD vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn on average about $17.45 per hour and $36,296 annually.
Line Cooks in Silver Spring earn salaries closely aligned with the national average, reflecting a competitive local labor market consistent with broader U.S. trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Silver Spring for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks might find higher pay include:
- Bethesda: $19.06 per hour
- Gaithersburg: $17.71 per hour
Line Cooks working in Bethesda tend to earn a premium compared to Silver Spring, while Gaithersburg offers a slightly higher wage relative to the city.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Silver Spring?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with stronger culinary skills typically command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay than fast food or casual dining venues.
Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may provide shift differentials boosting overall earnings.
Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety training can improve job prospects and salary potential.
Local Cost of Living and Demand: Silver Spring’s proximity to Washington D.C. can influence competitive wages due to regional living costs.
How To Become a Line Cook in Silver Spring
Entering the profession as a Line Cook in Silver Spring can be facilitated by completing culinary education and securing relevant certifications.
Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Consider programs like the Shepherd's Table Culinary Skills Training Program in Silver Spring, which provides 16 weeks of practical food preparation and cooking experience.
Another option is the Western School of Technology Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management Program, offering hands-on culinary education in nearby Baltimore County.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification enhances knowledge of safe food handling practices and is valued by employers.
Additionally, the Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential from the American Culinary Federation helps verify culinary competence and can improve career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Silver Spring
Silver Spring is home to various establishments that actively recruit Line Cooks, including:
- Riderwood Village by Erickson Senior Living
- Chevy Chase Club Inc.
- Dave & Buster's Restaurant
Establishments That Line Cooks in Silver Spring Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in diverse food service environments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often present high turnover but provide steady opportunities with moderate pay.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments usually offer higher wages and expect advanced cooking skills.
- Senior Living Communities and Clubs: Like Riderwood Village and Chevy Chase Club, which may provide stable employment and benefits.
- Entertainment and Food Service Chains: For example, Dave & Buster's, where the pace is fast and compensation is competitive.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect a Line Cook’s salary and advancement prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Silver Spring for Line Cooks
If you're exploring career options similar to Line Cook, consider these roles within the hospitality industry.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook — all roles requiring varying culinary skills and offering different salary ranges and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Silver Spring
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Line Cooks working in Silver Spring:
- For federal labor laws, workplace safety, and employment statistics, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Maryland Department of Labor site, dllr.state.md.us, provides resources on state labor regulations, licensing, and workforce development.
- For local rules and community resources specific to Silver Spring and Montgomery County, see the official Montgomery County government website.