Line Cook Salary in Waipahu, HI
Line Cooks in Waipahu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.25 per hour, which equates to about $730.00 per week, $3,163.33 per month, and $37,960.00 per year.
The job outlook for Line Cooks in Waipahu is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady demand for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Waipahu, HI?
The salary of a Line Cook in Waipahu can vary based on experience and 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) | $18.25 | $730.00 | $3,163.33 | $37,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Waipahu Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role typically involves food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually come exclusively from wages and salaries.
Line Cook Salary in Waipahu vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Waipahu earn significantly more, at approximately $18.25 per hour and $37,960 annually.
This higher pay rate is likely due to local market demand and the cost of living in Waipahu and the surrounding Hawaii area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waipahu for Line Cooks
When exploring nearby locations, consider the following pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Waipio Gentry: $18.25 per hour
- Kapolei: $22.88 per hour
Kapolei offers the highest pay among these nearby areas, which may attract Line Cooks seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Waipahu?
Several factors can affect how much a Line Cook earns in Waipahu:
- Experience: More seasoned Line Cooks often command higher wages due to their proficiency and speed.
- Skills: Special skills like prepping specialty cuisines or managing multiple stations can increase pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining or upscale restaurants tend to offer better salaries compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Graveyard or weekend shifts may come with higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications in food safety or culinary arts can boost earning potential.
How To Become a Line Cook in Waipahu
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Waipahu involves essential steps to build your skills and credentials.
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Consider enrolling in programs like the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program. These provide hands-on and theoretical training tailored for food service careers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquire the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit, both crucial for working legally in the food industry and ensuring safe practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek entry-level positions in restaurants or catering services to acquire real-world kitchen experience.
- Upgrade Skills Continuously: Strong knife skills, knowledge of cooking techniques, and ability to work effectively under pressure will enhance your prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Waipahu
Several prominent employers in Waipahu are frequently hiring Line Cooks:
- Highway Inn
- Times Supermarket
- Nancy’s Kitchen - Waipio Gentry
- Zippy's
- Ono Seafood
Establishments That Line Cooks in Waipahu Work At
Line Cooks typically find work at a variety of food service establishments in Waipahu, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually offer steady schedules and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These can provide more entry-level opportunities but sometimes with lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Such places often pay higher wages and seek cooks with refined culinary skills.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: These establishments may offer benefits in addition to competitive salaries.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary and growth opportunities for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waipahu for Line Cooks
If you're considering careers related to Line Cooking, several positions offer similar culinary experiences and career paths.
Consider exploring roles such as Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, which often provide a path for advancement in the culinary industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Waipahu
Line Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for general employment standards.
- For state-specific guidance, visit the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- For local regulations and resources, the City and County of Honolulu official website is a valuable reference.