Line Cook Salary in Sugar Land, TX
Line Cooks in Sugar Land, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $15.25 per hour, which translates to about $610.00 per week, $2,643.33 per month, and $31,720.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Sugar Land is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding restaurant and hospitality industry in the region that is creating more opportunities for culinary professionals.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Sugar Land, TX?
The salary of a Line Cook in Sugar Land can vary depending on experience, skills, and the type of establishment, but here is a general overview of earnings for different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.10 | $444.00 | $1,920.00 | $23,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,643.33 | $31,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.95 | $838.00 | $3,620.67 | $43,536.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Sugar Land Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their role is primarily focused on food preparation behind the scenes. Their compensation is usually based on hourly wages or salary, without tip income.
Line Cook Salary in Sugar Land vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.02 per hour, which translates to approximately $37,481.60 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Sugar Land earn a bit less at around $15.25 per hour and $31,720 per year. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and employer types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sugar Land for Line Cooks
Looking at nearby cities, here is how Line Cook pay compares:
- Bellaire: $15.02 per hour
- Houston: $14.56 per hour
Bellaire offers slightly higher wages for Line Cooks compared to Houston and Sugar Land, making it a competitive spot for culinary workers in the area.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Sugar Land?
A number of important factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Sugar Land:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more experience, especially in busy or upscale kitchens, tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally provides higher wages compared to fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Specialized Cooking Skills: Proficiency in particular cuisines or cooking techniques can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Variety: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay rates.
- Certifications: Holding food safety or culinary certifications can make candidates more desirable, sometimes affecting pay positively.
How To Become a Line Cook in Sugar Land
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Sugar Land involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here are some ways to increase your chances of landing a position:
- Attend Culinary Training Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Houston Community College offer hands-on training in kitchen techniques and management important for Line Cooks.
- Explore Advanced Cooking Programs: The Professional Cooking Program at The Art Institute of Houston provides intensive instruction focusing on cooking methods and culinary innovation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to ensure safe food handling in kitchens and are often required by employers.
- Earn Professional Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification that demonstrates fundamental culinary skills, enhancing employability.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level roles in kitchens such as prep cook or kitchen assistant can provide valuable experience.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Sugar Land
Several well-known restaurant chains and local establishments actively look for qualified Line Cooks in Sugar Land, including:
- First Watch
- P.F. Chang's
- Pappasito's Cantina
Establishments That Line Cooks in Sugar Land Work At
Line Cooks commonly work in a variety of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer steady work with moderate pay, good for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual Chains: These usually have a faster-paced kitchen environment with pay levels varying chain to chain.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages and require more advanced skills and precision.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Offer competitive pay and sometimes additional benefits due to the scale of operations.
The type of establishment impacts not only the pay but also the work environment and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sugar Land for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to a Line Cook, there are several related hospitality jobs worth considering in Sugar Land.
These include roles such as Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which involve similar culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Sugar Land
Line Cooks should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper workplace conditions and compliance.
- Information on federal employment laws, wages, and workers’ rights can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website offers resources on state labor laws, employment rights, and workforce programs: twc.texas.gov.