Line Cook Salary in Spokane, WA
Line Cooks in Spokane, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.94 per hour, which translates to about $757.60 per week, $3,282.93 per month, and $39,395.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Spokane is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Spokane can vary depending on experience and the establishment, but below is an overview of typical earnings across different levels of experience.
| 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) | $22.86 | $914.40 | $3,941.60 | $47,548.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Spokane Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work usually takes place in the kitchen without direct interaction with customers. Their earnings are primarily based on wages.
Line Cook Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.85 per hour, which equates to about $37,128 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Spokane earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $18.94 and an annual salary near $39,395.
This higher-than-average pay reflects Spokane’s growing culinary industry and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Line Cooks
Examining nearby areas reveals these hourly wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Spokane: $20.00 per hour
- South Hill: $19.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Spokane tend to earn the highest pay, benefiting from the concentration of restaurants and hospitality venues in the area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors impact the earnings of Line Cooks in Spokane:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills often receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally commands better wages than fast casual or chain eateries.
- Kitchen Responsibilities: Line Cooks with more duties or supervisory roles can see increased salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or extended hours might lead to shift differentials and additional compensation.
- Local Economic Factors: Spokane’s cost of living and local demand influence overall pay levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Spokane
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Spokane involves a combination of education, experience, and certifications.
Many aspiring Line Cooks attend culinary programs to gain foundational knowledge. For example, Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, preparing students for various roles in the culinary industry.
Another option is the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy, which focuses on hands-on experience and emphasizes local and sustainable ingredients.
Obtaining essential certifications also helps, such as the Washington State Food Worker Card, which is mandatory for food service workers, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification to ensure safe food handling practices.
Finally, gaining practical experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen positions will build the skills needed to advance in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Spokane
Some of the top places hiring Line Cooks in Spokane include:
- Luna
- Spokane Club
- P.F. Chang's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Spokane Work At
Line Cooks are found in a variety of dining establishments, such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Often provide consistent work and moderate pay suitable for those gaining experience.
- Fast Casual Venues: Typically fast-paced environments with slightly lower wages but ample opportunity to develop skills.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer higher pay scales reflecting the complexity and skills required.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Can provide stable employment with varying pay based on scale and clientele.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary due to differences in customer expectations, menu complexity, and service style.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Line Cooks
If you are interested in career paths similar to Line Cook, here are some related roles to consider:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, all of which require similar culinary skills and offer various advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Spokane
Line Cooks should keep informed about state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- On the Washington State Department of Licensing website, you can find information on professional regulations and licensing requirements.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website provides valuable data on employment statistics and occupational outlooks relevant to Line Cooks and related roles.