Line Cook Salary in Sterling Heights, MI
Line Cooks in Sterling Heights, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.26 per hour, which translates to about $690.40 per week, $2,991.73 per month, and $35,900.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Sterling Heights is growing moderately at around 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in job opportunities and industry expansion in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Sterling Heights, MI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Sterling Heights depends largely on experience and the employer; here's a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.03 | $561.20 | $2,426.93 | $29,134.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.26 | $690.40 | $2,991.73 | $35,900.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.23 | $849.20 | $3,681.47 | $44,158.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Sterling Heights Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mostly comes from their hourly wage or salary rather than customer gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Sterling Heights vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour, translating to about $33,488 per year.
When compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Sterling Heights earn slightly more at about $17.26 per hour and $35,900.80 annually, reflecting somewhat higher wages in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sterling Heights for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer significantly higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Birmingham: $36.85 per hour
- West Bloomfield Township: $36.60 per hour
These areas provide lucrative opportunities for Line Cooks seeking higher pay, likely due to the upscale dining and competitive food service markets in those locales.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Sterling Heights?
Several key factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Sterling Heights:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with specialized skills or versatility in kitchen stations tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Completing culinary courses or food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
- Location and Cost of Living: Local economic factors and competition influence salaries within the region.
How To Become a Line Cook in Sterling Heights
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Sterling Heights, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Macomb Community College Culinary Arts Program and Dorsey College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to ensure knowledge of industry-standard food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships in kitchens help build skills and resume strength.
- Advance Skills: Pursuing certifications like Certified Culinarian (CC) can demonstrate professional competency and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Sterling Heights
Major employers actively hiring Line Cooks in Sterling Heights include:
- Olive Garden
- IHOP
- First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
Establishments That Line Cooks in Sterling Heights Work At
Line Cooks typically work in a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady hours and moderate wages; often the entry point for Line Cooks.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Focus on efficiency; pay can vary based on volume and brand reputation.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide higher wages and benefits due to scale and clientele expectations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer the highest pay reflecting skill requirements and quality standards.
The type of establishment influences the earning potential and work environment for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sterling Heights for Line Cooks
If you are considering alternative or complementary careers to Line Cook, here are a few related roles:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, roles that require related culinary skills and offer varying salary ranges and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Sterling Heights
Line Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the State of Michigan official website for detailed information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal labor laws and standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor official website.