Line Cook in Sunnyvale, CA
Line Cooks in Sunnyvale, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.99 per hour, which translates to about $999.60 per week, $4,331.60 per month, and $51,979.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Sunnyvale is growing at around 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a strengthening market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Sunnyvale, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Sunnyvale varies with experience and employer, but here's an overview of what you can expect at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.72 | $788.80 | $3,407.47 | $40,896.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.99 | $999.60 | $4,331.60 | $51,979.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.66 | $1,266.40 | $5,458.93 | $65,832.80 |
Do Line Cooks in Sunnyvale Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips directly as their role is primarily kitchen-based, preparing food rather than engaging with customers. Their earnings are usually from their wages or salary alone.
Line Cook Salary in Sunnyvale vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $16 per hour, amounting to around $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Sunnyvale earn significantly more, with an average of $24.99 per hour and $51,979.20 annually.
This difference can be attributed to the higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary workers in the Sunnyvale region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sunnyvale for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Line Cooks, such as:
- Mountain View: $47.87 per hour
- Menlo Park: $47.24 per hour
Line Cooks commuting or working in these locations can expect substantially higher wages than the Sunnyvale average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Sunnyvale?
Several key factors affect how much a Line Cook might earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined skills in various culinary techniques often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Culinary positions at upscale restaurants or catering services generally offer better pay than fast-food or casual dining establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary training or food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Night or weekend shifts might include differential pay, increasing overall income.
- Local Cost of Living: Sunnyvale’s higher living costs impact salary levels positively compared to other regions.
How To Become a Line Cook in Sunnyvale
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a Line Cook in Sunnyvale, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs such as those at The International Culinary Center – Campbell or Mission College – Santa Clara provide comprehensive training in culinary arts covering essential cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification, widely recognized in California, ensures knowledge of proper food safety practices and is often required by employers.
- Earn Industry Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates cooking proficiency and culinary knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level positions such as prep cook or kitchen assistant helps build skills and work ethic needed for Line Cook roles.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Sunnyvale
Several well-known companies actively hire skilled Line Cooks in Sunnyvale, including:
- Bon Appétit Management Company
- P.F. Chang's
- Urban Plates
Establishments That Line Cooks in Sunnyvale Work At
Line Cooks find employment across various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work hours and moderate pay, suitable for gaining broad kitchen experience.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service: Positions here may have faster-paced environments with varying pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Usually offer higher pay and require refined culinary skills and presentation abilities.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Working in large-scale food preparation environments can offer different compensation structures, sometimes with benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences the Line Cook's salary, with more upscale and specialized venues typically providing higher wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sunnyvale for Line Cooks
If you’re exploring careers similar to Line Cook, here are some related roles that involve culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities:
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Head Chef, which are career paths related to cooking and kitchen leadership.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Sunnyvale
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Line Cooks in Sunnyvale to protect their rights and manage employment correctly.
- For California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on state employment benefits and tax information.
- For federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace safety, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor.