Line Cook Salary in Vacaville, CA
Line Cooks in Vacaville, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Vacaville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this culinary role.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Vacaville, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Vacaville can vary depending on experience and employer, but here’s an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Vacaville Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation mainly consists of hourly wages or salaries rather than tips.
Line Cook Salary in Vacaville, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Vacaville earn more, at around $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually. This higher pay could reflect local cost of living or demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vacaville for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varying pay rates for Line Cooks, including:
- Downtown Vacaville: $19.00 per hour
- Nut Tree Plaza: $18.50 per hour
The Downtown Vacaville area provides a somewhat higher wage for Line Cooks, which might attract job seekers willing to commute.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Vacaville?
Several key factors influence how much a Line Cook can earn in Vacaville:
- Experience and Skills: Line Cooks with more years in the kitchen and specialized skills (such as proficiency in certain cuisines or working under high-pressure conditions) tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resort kitchens often comes with better pay than casual dining or fast-casual outlets.
- Shift Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may offer shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications like the California Food Handler Certification or ServSafe Certification can enhance employability and salary potential.
- Local Demand and Economy: The overall demand for culinary staff and the economic health of Vacaville affect wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Vacaville
To start a career as a Line Cook in Vacaville, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Training: Local establishments like Ojai Culinary School offer various culinary classes and programs ideal for beginners aiming to enter the kitchen workforce.
- Explore Specialized Education: Chef Garrison's Academy also provides culinary education, focusing on younger students and foundational cooking skills.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: In California, the California Food Handler Certification is required for all food service workers, ensuring knowledge of safety practices. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is a nationally recognized credential valued by many employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships can build experience, leading to advancement.
- Stay Informed and Network: Joining local culinary groups and attending food industry events can open opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Vacaville
Several prominent employers in Vacaville routinely seek skilled Line Cooks, such as:
- NorthBay Health
- Thistle Health Inc.
- Mendocino Farms
Establishments That Line Cooks in Vacaville Work At
Line Cooks in Vacaville typically work across a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These are common employment settings, usually offering moderate wage levels but high opportunity due to volume of locations.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often pay higher wages to skilled Line Cooks who can meet rigorous culinary standards.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger-scale kitchens may provide better benefits and salaries.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with higher-end venues typically offering greater pay and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vacaville for Line Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Line Cook, consider exploring related positions that share culinary skills or kitchen responsibilities.
These roles include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, all offering varying levels of responsibility and salary ranges within the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Vacaville
Understanding your rights and obligations under labor laws and tax regulations is vital for Line Cooks in Vacaville.
- California’s labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides information on employment services and benefits.
- Federal labor laws and resources are available through the U.S. Department of Labor.