Line Cook Salary in Surprise, AZ
Line Cooks in Surprise, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Surprise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary job market.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Surprise varies based on experience, skill, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.14 | $645.60 | $2,795.20 | $33,542.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Surprise Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves kitchen preparation and cooking rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wage or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.92 per hour, translating to about $39,353.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Surprise earn slightly less, at about $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually. This difference may reflect local living costs and demand fluctuations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Line Cooks
Line Cooks in nearby areas can earn significantly higher wages:
- Waddell: $39.19 per hour
- Scottsdale: $38.33 per hour
These nearby towns represent some of the more lucrative markets for Line Cooks, often due to higher-end dining establishments and larger tourism sectors.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Surprise?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Line Cook in Surprise:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks often command higher wages due to their culinary skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Specialization: Expertise in specific cuisines or kitchen techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can boost salary potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in Surprise
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Surprise involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Local options include Maricopa Community Colleges in Phoenix, offering an Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts, and the Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale, which provides a Diploma in Culinary Arts, Baking, and Restaurant Management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: A Food Handler's Card is mandatory in Arizona, and obtaining a nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is highly recommended.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as apprentices, prep cooks, or assisting chefs helps build valuable hands-on skills.
- Networking and Job Search: Engaging with local hospitality industry professionals and seeking opportunities at reputable establishments can facilitate job placement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Surprise
The following prominent employers in Surprise are known for hiring skilled Line Cooks:
- Tokyo Joes
- Eddie's Italian Eatery
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Establishments That Line Cooks in Surprise Work At
Line Cooks in Surprise find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady schedules but usually moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically provide a faster-paced environment and sometimes different pay structures.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and provide opportunities for career growth.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: May offer unique culinary experiences and competitive pay for specialized skills.
The type of establishment directly influences the salary, with higher-end venues tending to provide increased compensation for skilled Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Line Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to Line Cook, you might consider roles that offer progression or different culinary specialties.
These include Head Chef, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager positions, which require greater experience and skills but usually lead to higher salaries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Surprise
Line Cooks should stay informed about state and federal labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance with tax obligations.
- Information on Arizona-specific labor laws, employment regulations, and worker rights can be found on the Arizona government website.
- For comprehensive details about federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.