Line Cook Salary in Tallahassee, FL
Line Cooks in Tallahassee, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.94 per hour, which translates to about $677.60 per week, $2,936.27 per month, and $35,235.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Tallahassee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy market with expanding opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Tallahassee, FL?
The salary of a Line Cook in Tallahassee can vary based on experience and the employer, but the following table provides an overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.94 | $677.60 | $2,936.27 | $35,235.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.83 | $793.20 | $3,422.40 | $41,126.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Tallahassee Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly comes from their wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Tallahassee vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.00 per hour, corresponding to roughly $37,440 per year.
Compared to these figures, Line Cooks in Tallahassee earn slightly less, making approximately $16.94 per hour and $35,235.20 annually.
This difference can be attributed to local cost of living and demand factors specific to the Tallahassee area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tallahassee for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Midtown: $18.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Midtown generally see higher pay compared to the Downtown area, reflecting differences in local restaurant types and demand.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Tallahassee?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Line Cook in Tallahassee:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with a strong grasp of cooking techniques and kitchen efficiency receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically pay more than fast casual or standard diners.
- Work Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may include premium pay or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications like ServSafe can boost employability and salary prospects.
- Local Market Demand: The restaurant industry's growth in Tallahassee affects salary growth opportunities.
How To Become a Line Cook in Tallahassee
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Tallahassee can be enhanced with the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs such as the Tallahassee Community College Culinary Program offer comprehensive training including hands-on kitchen experience and industry certifications.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and increases job prospects.
- Consider Specialized Programs: The REfire Culinary Reentry Program provides eight weeks of on-the-job training for individuals with felony convictions, covering food safety and job placement assistance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships at local restaurants offer valuable hands-on skills and industry exposure.
- Certified Culinarian (CC): Earning this entry-level certification from the American Culinary Federation can showcase foundational cooking abilities and professionalism.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Tallahassee
Some of the leading employers seeking Line Cooks in Tallahassee include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Glory Days Grill
- Panera Bread
Establishments That Line Cooks in Tallahassee Work At
Line Cooks in Tallahassee typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often the most common, these provide steady hours but generally offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Such establishments provide quicker service with moderately competitive wages.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Working here often means higher salaries due to the complexity of dishes and service expectations.
- Event Catering and Banquets: These can offer seasonal work with the possibility of higher hourly rates during events.
The establishment type significantly impacts salary and chances for advancement, with upscale venues typically offering the best earnings potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tallahassee for Line Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Line Cook, here are some similar positions you might consider:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, all involving culinary expertise and kitchen leadership roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Tallahassee
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For information specific to Florida's labor laws and resources, the official Florida state website is a valuable resource.