Line Cook Salary in Tempe, AZ
Line Cooks in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $19.20 per hour, which translates to about $768.00 per week, $3,328.00 per month, and $39,936.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in the Tempe area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Tempe varies based on experience level, skillset, and the type of employer. Below is an overview of earnings across different stages in the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.13 | $645.20 | $2,792.27 | $33,502.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.20 | $768.00 | $3,328.00 | $39,936.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.84 | $913.60 | $3,950.13 | $47,507.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Tempe Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily derived from hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn about $18.92 per hour, which adds up to around $39,353.60 per year.
Compared to these averages, Line Cooks in Tempe earn slightly more, with a typical hourly wage of $19.20 and an annual salary of $39,936.00.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living, demand for culinary workers, and the restaurant industry's size in Tempe.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Line Cooks
Some surrounding neighborhoods offer higher salaries for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Tempe: $20.50 per hour
- South Tempe: $21.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in South Tempe tend to earn the highest wages in the area, followed closely by those in Downtown Tempe.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors impact how much a Line Cook can expect to earn in Tempe, including:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced knife skills or specialization in cuisines often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts can come with shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications may boost employability and pay.
- Local Labor Market Demand: Employer competition for skilled cooks can drive wages up.
How To Become a Line Cook in Tempe
To start a career as a Line Cook in Tempe, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Mountain Pointe High School and Marcos de Niza High School provide technical skills and knowledge, covering food preparation, safety, nutrition, and kitchen management.
- Food Handler's Card: Obtaining this card is mandatory for all food service workers in Arizona, verifying understanding of food safety regulations.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: Highly regarded nationwide, this certification covers comprehensive food safety training and is often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs or apprenticeships help build the essential skills needed.
Building a solid foundation with education, certification, and experience will enhance employment prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Tempe
Many prominent employers in Tempe regularly seek skilled Line Cooks:
- Omni Hotels & Resorts
- Texas Roadhouse
- North Italia
- Flower Child
- Red Robin
Establishments That Line Cooks in Tempe Work At
Line Cooks in Tempe work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide consistent hours but generally moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer a fast-paced environment with potential for tips from customers in some cases.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may offer higher wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Eateries: Require more specialized skills and often pay higher wages to skilled Line Cooks.
The type of establishment has a significant effect on salary, where high-end or luxury venues generally offer better compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Line Cooks
Those interested in similar careers to Line Cook might explore roles with related skills and responsibilities:
Careers such as Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook offer alternative paths within kitchen environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Tempe
Line Cooks in Tempe should be aware of several local and state resources regarding labor laws, regulations, and taxation requirements:
- Arizona Department of Health Services - Responsible for overseeing public health regulations, including food safety standards.
- Arizona Department of Economic Security - Provides employment services and labor market information for workers in Arizona.
- City of Tempe Official Website - Offers information on local regulations, permits, and employment resources.