Line Cook Salary in Topeka, KS
Line Cooks in Topeka, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $14.80 per hour, which translates to about $592.00 per week, $2,565.33 per month, and $30,784.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Topeka shows a positive growth rate of 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled culinary staff in the area over the coming years.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Topeka, KS?
The salary of a Line Cook in Topeka, KS, varies depending on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical pay at various experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.30 | $492.00 | $2,130.00 | $25,560.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.80 | $592.00 | $2,565.33 | $30,784.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.82 | $712.80 | $3,083.20 | $37,017.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Topeka Earn Tips?
Line Cooks usually do not earn tips as they work behind the scenes, preparing food rather than directly serving customers. Their compensation is generally through wages or hourly pay alone.
Line Cook Salary in Topeka, KS vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, which amounts to about $37,440.00 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Topeka have an hourly wage of $14.80 and an annual salary of $30,784.00. This indicates that wages in Topeka are somewhat lower than the national average, likely reflecting the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Topeka for Line Cooks
Some nearby employers offering higher pay to Line Cooks include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse: $21.58 per hour
- Delta Gamma: $19.23 per hour
- First Watch: $19.23 per hour
- Eurest: $18.15 per hour
- Stormont Vail Health: $17.73 per hour
Working at these establishments near Topeka can significantly increase a Line Cook's hourly earnings compared to the local average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Topeka?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Topeka:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or well-known chains usually offer better wages than fast casual or smaller venues.
- Shift Hours: Working night or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials, increasing pay.
- Additional Skills: Knowledge of specialized cooking techniques or kitchen management can boost salary potential.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training or certifications can enhance credibility and pay rates.
How To Become a Line Cook in Topeka
To start a career as a Line Cook in Topeka, consider these steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Washburn Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program or Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Achieving credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can improve job prospects and reassure employers of your skills.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles such as prep cook or kitchen assistant help develop necessary practical skills.
- Network With Local Employers: Engage with restaurants and catering companies to find open positions and learn about industry expectations.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Topeka
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Line Cooks in Topeka include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- Delta Gamma
- First Watch
- Eurest
- Stormont Vail Health
Establishments That Line Cooks in Topeka Work At
Line Cooks in Topeka work in a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Common workplaces offering steady hours but typically moderate pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher-end restaurants tend to offer better wages and opportunities for skill development.
- Catering Services and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals, schools, and corporate dining can provide stable employment with benefits.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: These offer diverse cooking experiences and sometimes higher pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Line Cook’s earnings and career growth possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Topeka for Line Cooks
Those interested in culinary careers similar to Line Cook may also explore positions like Prep Cook, Cook, and Fry Cook, which offer overlapping skills and career opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Topeka
Line Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax obligations that affect their employment in Topeka, KS.
- For detailed federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific regulations and resources, the State of Kansas official website provides up-to-date information.