Line Cook Salary in Tucson, AZ
Line Cooks in Tucson, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.23 per hour, translating to about $689.20 per week, $2,986.53 per month, and $35,838.40 per year.
The job market for Line Cooks in Tucson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive demand and opportunities in the culinary field within the region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Tucson, AZ?
The salary of a Line Cook in Tucson varies by experience, but here is what you can generally expect based on different career levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.23 | $689.20 | $2,986.53 | $35,838.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Tucson Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips directly as their work is focused in the kitchen. However, some establishments occasionally share tip pools among kitchen staff, which could provide some additional earnings beyond base pay.
Line Cook Salary in Tucson vs. National Average
The national average salary for Line Cooks is about $17.23 per hour or $35,838.40 annually.
In Tucson, the average hourly pay and annual salary for Line Cooks aligns closely with the national average, offering competitive wages compared to other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tucson for Line Cooks
Some nearby areas offering better salaries for Line Cooks include:
- Downtown Tucson: $18.50 per hour
- Catalina Foothills: $19.60 per hour
Cooks working in Catalina Foothills can expect the highest hourly wages nearby, reflecting the upscale dining establishments often found there.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Tucson?
Several factors determine how much a Line Cook can earn in Tucson:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More skilled and experienced cooks command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts can sometimes come with higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Education and Certifications: Culinary training and certifications may lead to better job opportunities and pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher demand for skilled cooks may offer more competitive salaries.
How To Become a Line Cook in Tucson
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Tucson involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Pima Community College Culinary Arts Program or The Art Institute of Tucson Culinary Arts Program provide essential hands-on cooking skills, kitchen management, and food safety knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Arizona Food Handler Card are essential to comply with health regulations and improve employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build your culinary skills and knowledge of kitchen operations.
- Develop Key Skills: Focus on speed, efficiency, multitasking, and attention to detail, which are critical for the fast-paced environment of line cooking.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Tucson
Some of the major employers looking for Line Cooks in Tucson include:
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Tucson Work At
Line Cooks in Tucson typically find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide competitive wages with the opportunity for steady shifts.
- Fast Casual Outlets: May offer slightly lower wages but can provide quicker advancement with experience.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay higher salaries and require advanced culinary skills and techniques.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: Offer steady work and benefits, sometimes with higher wages based on establishment prestige.
The type of establishment can greatly influence salary potential, with fine dining and resort kitchens often offering the most lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tucson for Line Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider exploring the following related careers:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, all roles that require strong culinary skills and offer paths for career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Tucson
Line Cooks should be aware of local, state, and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Information on federal labor laws can be accessed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Arizona state employment rules and labor regulations are available through the Arizona Department of Economic Security site.
- Local regulations and workforce resources for Tucson can be found on the City of Tucson official website.