Line Cook Salary in Tacoma, WA
Line Cooks in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.80 per hour, which translates to about $832.00 per week, $3,605.33 per month, and $43,264.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Tacoma is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job market prospects and increasing opportunities within the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Tacoma varies based on experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview of typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.77 | $670.80 | $2,897.20 | $34,809.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.80 | $832.00 | $3,605.33 | $43,264.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.80 | $1,032.00 | $4,456.00 | $53,664.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities occur primarily in the kitchen, away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes from wages alone, without tipping.
Line Cook Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which amounts to about $37,440.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Tacoma earn more at about $20.80 per hour and $43,264.00 annually. This increase may reflect the regional cost of living and demand for skilled culinary workers in Tacoma.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Line Cooks
In nearby areas, salaries for Line Cooks vary slightly:
- Downtown Tacoma: $22.00 per hour
- North End: $21.50 per hour
Line Cooks working in Downtown Tacoma may enjoy slightly higher wages compared to other parts of the city.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Tacoma?
Experience and skill level greatly influence a Line Cook’s pay. Those with more years in the kitchen or specialized culinary skills can command higher wages.
Type of establishment also plays a major role. Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
Shift timings and responsibilities can affect salary; night shifts or supervisory duties may offer additional pay.
The local cost of living in Tacoma contributes to above-average compensation compared to the national baseline for this role.
How To Become a Line Cook in Tacoma
To become a Line Cook in Tacoma, aspiring culinary professionals can consider the following:
- Complete culinary training such as the Goodwill Culinary Skills Training, a 12-week course offering hands-on kitchen experience along with classroom learning of knife skills and cooking techniques.
- Enroll in degree programs like the Lake Washington Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program that prepare students for commercial kitchen work.
- Obtain required licenses and certifications including the Food Handler's Permit mandated by Washington State and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification focusing on food safety and sanitation standards.
- Gain practical experience by working in entry-level kitchen roles and building skill sets.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Tacoma
Several prominent employers actively seek skilled Line Cooks in Tacoma, including:
- Silver Cloud Hotel Tacoma at Point Ruston
- Olive Garden
- Cheney Stadium (Ivar's Sports & Entertainment)
Establishments That Line Cooks in Tacoma Work At
Line Cooks can find employment across a variety of establishment types such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide stable employment but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: These establishments typically have fast-paced kitchens with standardized menus, resulting in competitive but usually lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide better pay and benefits due to larger scale operations and higher demand for experienced cooks.
- Catering Companies: Offer opportunities to work on diverse menus and may provide premium wages for specialized skills.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence earning potential and opportunities for career advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Line Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to Line Cook, consider the following roles which share similar skill sets:
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager roles, all of which involve culinary expertise and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Tacoma
Line Cooks should be knowledgeable about labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific workplace safety rules and labor laws in Washington, refer to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.