Line Cook Salary in Visalia, CA
Line Cooks in Visalia, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Visalia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Visalia, CA?
The salary of a Line Cook in Visalia varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general view of earnings across 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) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,203.33 | $38,480.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Visalia Earn Tips?
Typically, Line Cooks do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing meals rather than interacting directly with customers. Their compensation mainly consists of wages.
Line Cook Salary in Visalia vs. National Average
On a national level, Line Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Visalia earn slightly more, with around $16.50 per hour and $34,320 annually.
This pay difference can be attributed to local cost of living and demand for culinary professionals in Visalia.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Visalia for Line Cooks
The salary for Line Cooks can vary within the Visalia region. Nearby areas offer the following approximate hourly rates:
- Downtown Visalia: $17.00
- North Visalia: $16.50
Line Cooks in Downtown Visalia generally earn a bit more than in North Visalia, likely due to higher restaurant density and more upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Visalia?
Several factors influence the earning potential of a Line Cook in Visalia:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with strong culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels tends to pay better than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications can improve salary prospects and job opportunities.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Some shifts, such as evenings or weekends, may offer additional pay incentives.
- Local Labor Market Demand: Demand for skilled kitchen staff in Visalia can influence wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Visalia
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Visalia involves a few key steps:
- Participate in Culinary Training Programs: Local programs such as the College of the Sequoias Culinary Arts Program and Tulare Adult School Culinary Arts provide comprehensive cooking skills and hands-on training.
- Obtain Required Certifications: All food service employees in California need the California Food Handler Card. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships help build essential skills and prepare for Line Cook positions.
- Foster Strong Work Ethics and Teamwork: Success in a busy kitchen relies on collaboration and reliability.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Visalia
Several well-known restaurant chains and local establishments frequently hire Line Cooks in Visalia, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Visalia Work At
Line Cooks in Visalia work across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but often with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Fast-paced environments with consistent hours and wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and offer opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Services: Can offer diverse kitchen experiences, sometimes with variable salary.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale restaurants and hotels generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Visalia for Line Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to being a Line Cook, consider these similar roles that might interest you:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which require related culinary skills and offer different salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Visalia
Line Cooks should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that apply in Visalia, CA, to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for detailed labor standards.
- The California Employment Development Department provides information on employment services and tax information.
- For local government resources and additional information, see Tulare County official website.