Line Cook Salary in Suffolk, VA
Line Cooks in Suffolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.30 per hour, which translates to about $612.00 per week, $2,652.00 per month, and $31,824.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary industry in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Suffolk varies depending on experience and skills, but the following table provides an overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.30 | $612.00 | $2,652.00 | $31,824.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,206.67 | $38,480.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work happens primarily in the kitchen and away from direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually rely on hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.14 per hour, which amounts to roughly $35,651.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Suffolk earn a bit less, making about $15.30 per hour and $31,824.00 annually. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and market demand in Suffolk.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Suffolk: $16.50 per hour
- Harbour View: $17.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Harbour View can generally expect slightly higher wages compared to those in Downtown Suffolk.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors influence the salary a Line Cook earns in Suffolk, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with specialized cooking skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants may offer better pay than casual or fast food establishments.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those who work evenings, weekends, or holidays might receive shift differentials increasing their pay.
- Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications or food safety credentials can boost earning potential.
- Local Economy and Competition: Suffolk’s specific market demand and economic conditions also play a role.
How To Become a Line Cook in Suffolk
Getting started as a Line Cook in Suffolk involves a combination of training and experience. Here are some steps to consider:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College, which offers hands-on cooking experience and kitchen management skills.
- Pursue Specialized Culinary Education: Nearby Culinary Institute of Virginia provides programs on culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, and food service management to prepare for varied kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food handling and safety practices.
- Gain Industry Certifications: Earning credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation highlights fundamental culinary skills and professionalism.
- Acquire Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships in restaurants help build essential cooking techniques and work pace.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Suffolk
Some notable employers looking for Line Cooks in Suffolk include:
- Hardee's
- Kickback Jack's
- Cedar Point Club
Establishments That Line Cooks in Suffolk Work At
Line Cooks in Suffolk typically find employment in various culinary establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These often have high turnover and may offer quicker but generally lower wage opportunities.
- Casual Dining: Offers moderate pay and may provide more varied cooking experiences.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to offer higher wages and demand advanced cooking skills and presentation.
- Catering and Club Facilities: Can provide seasonal or event-based opportunities with competitive pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence a Line Cook’s salary, with upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Line Cooks
Those interested in similar careers might consider roles related to Line Cook, which include various kitchen and culinary positions.
This includes jobs such as Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, which share culinary skills and working conditions with Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Suffolk
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand national employment standards.
- Refer to the Virginia state website for labor and employment laws for state-specific rules.
- Check the Local government website for Suffolk, VA for local labor regulations and resources.