Line Cook Salary in Toledo, OH
Line Cooks in Toledo, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Toledo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Toledo, OH?
The salary of a Line Cook in Toledo varies based on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of wages by experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,816.67 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Toledo Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based and does not involve direct customer service. Their income mainly depends on hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Toledo vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn approximately $14.50 per hour, which equates to around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Toledo earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 but still maintain competitive earnings within the local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Toledo for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Toledo: $15.50 per hour
- Westgate: $17.60 per hour
Line Cooks working in Westgate can expect higher wages compared to other areas due to the presence of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Toledo?
Several key factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Toledo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with proficiency in multiple cooking techniques or cuisines often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies usually pay better than fast-food outlets or casual diners.
- Location: Wages often vary by neighborhood or district due to cost of living and restaurant demand.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening, night, or weekend shifts may result in additional shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Additional Certifications: Holding food safety certifications can also impact salary positively.
How To Become a Line Cook in Toledo
To become a successful Line Cook in Toledo, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Owens Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts with hands-on and theoretical knowledge.
- Begin Early with Foundational Skills: High school students can get started through courses at Penta Career Center Culinary Arts Program to gain basic culinary skills and certifications.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and recognized nationally for demonstrating knowledge of proper food handling.
- Advance with Culinary Credentials: Achieving credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation showcases a validated skill set, enhancing job prospects.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps build essential skills and improve employability.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Toledo
Some of the prominent employers currently hiring Line Cooks in Toledo include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Line Cooks in Toledo Work At
Line Cooks in Toledo typically find employment across a variety of establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These offer entry-level opportunities but generally come with lower wages compared to other establishments.
- Casual Dining and Diners: Provide consistent work schedules with moderate pay and potential for advancement.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments usually pay higher wages due to the skill level required and quality standards.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often require centralized and large-scale food preparation with competitive salaries and benefits.
Salary variations depend significantly on the type and reputation of the establishment with upscale venues typically offering higher wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Toledo for Line Cooks
If you are interested in pursuing other related roles within hospitality, here are a few options similar to Line Cook:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef — roles closely related in culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Toledo
It is important for Line Cooks in Toledo to be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- For federal labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Ohio’s Department of Job and Family Services offers employment resources and labor information on their site: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
- The City of Toledo provides local employment resources and information at Toledo's official website.