Line Cook Salary in Skokie, IL
Line Cooks in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.03 per hour, which translates to about $721.20 per week, $3,125.20 per month, and $37,502.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Skokie is growing steadily with about 5% annual growth, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Skokie varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown by experience level showing typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.01 | $680.40 | $2,943.60 | $35,404.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.03 | $721.20 | $3,125.20 | $37,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.20 | $848.00 | $3,686.67 | $44,096.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Skokie Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than customer-facing. Earnings mostly come from salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.03 per hour, which amounts to about $37,502.40 annually.
The salary in Skokie matches the national average, reflecting competitive pay consistent with industry standards and local cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Line Cooks
Nearby areas to Skokie offer slightly different pay scales for Line Cooks, including:
- Old Orchard: $20.00 per hour
- Downtown Skokie: $19.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Old Orchard can expect to earn a bit more than those in Downtown Skokie, while Skokie itself offers competitive wages in the region.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook in Skokie earns:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills or specialization tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining restaurants or upscale hotels typically pays more than fast casual or casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or overnight shifts can offer additional pay premiums.
- Certifications: Possession of food safety certifications like ServSafe or Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Labor Market Conditions: The competitive restaurant scene in Skokie impacts wage levels and opportunities available.
How To Become a Line Cook in Skokie
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Skokie involves several key steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program or Kendall College Culinary Arts Program to gain hands-on experience and comprehensive culinary skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification is often required and valued by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a prep cook or kitchen assistant in local restaurants provides vital kitchen experience and opportunities for promotion.
- Networking: Building relationships with chefs and restaurant managers in the area can help in securing jobs and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Skokie
Several well-known restaurant chains and local establishments regularly hire Line Cooks in Skokie, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Robin
- Uncle Julio's
- Darden Restaurants
Establishments That Line Cooks in Skokie Work At
Line Cooks in Skokie work across a diverse range of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate pay and some tips shared among kitchen staff.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer slightly lower pay but usually have a faster pace and turnover.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Typically offer higher wages and opportunities for skill development and career progression.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: Can provide varied work environments and sometimes higher hourly rates due to event nature.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Line Cook’s salary, with upscale venues generally offering better compensation than fast casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Line Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Line Cook, here are a few related hospitality positions worth exploring:
These roles include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each with distinct responsibilities and pay scales within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Skokie
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Line Cooks to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- Information on federal labor laws and regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Illinois-specific employment and labor information, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- The Skokie local government website provides community and business resources relevant to workers and employers.