Line Cook in Virginia Beach, VA
Line Cooks in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.40 per hour, which translates to about $696.00 per week, $3,016.00 per month, and $36,192.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Virginia Beach is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in employment opportunities and a positive outlook for the role in this region.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Virginia Beach can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| 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 Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their income is mostly based on wages and salaries rather than tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $17.40 per hour, which is about $36,192.00 per year.
Comparatively, Line Cooks in Virginia Beach earn close to the national average hourly wage, indicating that the pay level in this city aligns well with the broader U.S. market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Line Cooks
Line Cooks working near Virginia Beach can find differing pay scales at various establishments in the vicinity:
- Hot Tuna: $22.76 per hour
- The Stockpot: $20.67 per hour
These venues offer higher pay rates for Line Cooks compared to the general average in Virginia Beach, making them attractive workplaces for culinary professionals seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several crucial factors impact how much a Line Cook can earn in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialized dining venues usually offer better pay than fast food or casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays may come with higher pay rates or differential shifts.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety credentials can enhance earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Virginia Beach’s economy and living expenses influence salary ranges within the food service sector.
How To Become a Line Cook in Virginia Beach
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Virginia Beach involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Culinary Institute of Virginia, which offer comprehensive and practical cooking education.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Qualifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification help ensure compliance with health regulations and demonstrate professional capability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles helps build skills and opens opportunities for advancement.
- Stay Informed About Industry Trends: Continuing education and staying current with culinary best practices can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Virginia Beach
The following establishments are notable employers actively hiring Line Cooks in Virginia Beach:
- Hot Tuna
- The Stockpot
- Another Broken Egg Cafe
Establishments That Line Cooks in Virginia Beach Work At
Line Cooks find work in various types of food service venues in Virginia Beach, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places tend to offer moderate wages but more frequent work hours.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often provide steady, entry-level opportunities though pay rates may be lower.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Establishments: Usually pay higher wages and may provide opportunities for advancement in culinary careers.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations can offer better benefits and salaries.
The type and reputation of the establishment significantly influence the earning potential and career growth for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Line Cooks
There are several roles related to being a Line Cook that might interest culinary professionals looking to expand their career options in Virginia Beach.
These include Fry Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor positions, all of which share related culinary responsibilities and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Virginia Beach
Line Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on workplace standards, wages, and hours.
- Refer to the Virginia state government website for specific state employment laws and resources.