Line Cook Salary in Wilmington, DE
Line Cooks in Wilmington, DE, 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 Wilmington is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and a positive outlook for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Wilmington, DE?
The salary of a Line Cook in Wilmington can vary based on experience, skills, and employer size, but generally, here’s a breakdown 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 Wilmington Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips because they primarily work in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their income mostly consists of base wages rather than tip earnings.
Line Cook Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.02 per hour, or roughly $37,481.60 per year.
In comparison, Wilmington's Line Cooks make slightly less than the national hourly average by just a few cents, with an annual salary that is very close to the national level. This suggests Wilmington offers competitive pay within typical market ranges for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Line Cooks
Nearby areas around Wilmington offer varying salary prospects for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Wilmington: $19.00 per hour
- Riverfront: $20.00 per hour
Those working closer to the Riverfront area tend to have the best pay rates, reflecting perhaps the concentration of upscale dining and busy culinary operations there.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors contribute to the variation in Line Cook salaries within Wilmington:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks command higher wages due to refined skills.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines or cooking techniques can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically offer higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working late-night or weekend shifts might entail extra pay or shift differentials.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Larger organizations often provide better remuneration and benefits.
How To Become a Line Cook in Wilmington
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Wilmington involves several steps:
- Consider enrolling in culinary programs such as the Delaware Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive preparation in kitchen skills.
- The University of Delaware Hospitality Business Management program is another option that combines food production knowledge with management skills for a broader understanding.
- Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures employers recognize your commitment to food safety standards.
- Advanced professional recognition can be earned through certifications such as the American Culinary Federation Certification, helping to validate culinary proficiency and boost career prospects.
- Gaining hands-on experience in kitchens allows you to build practical skills critical to job performance.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Wilmington
Some of the leading employers looking for skilled Line Cooks in Wilmington include:
- Morrison Healthcare
- First Watch
- FLIK Hospitality Group
Establishments That Line Cooks in Wilmington Work At
Line Cooks in Wilmington typically find employment in a variety of restaurant establishments:
- Casual Dining: These spots usually offer a steady pace and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual: Often come with a faster tempo but pay may be lower than upscale venues.
- Fine Dining: These restaurants often pay higher wages reflecting the skill required and the quality of food prepared.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These can provide competitive salaries and additional benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with higher-end places generally offering more attractive pay than more casual venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Line Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Line Cook, here are a few related positions you might explore:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Head Chef, all roles that share culinary skills but differ in responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Wilmington
Line Cooks need to be knowledgeable about the labor laws and tax requirements affecting their employment in Wilmington.
- For Delaware-specific regulations, the State of Delaware Department of Labor website provides comprehensive information.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers worker rights and employment regulations nationwide.