Line Cook Salary in Wilmington, NC
Line Cooks in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $17.10 per hour, which translates to about $684.00 per week, $2,964.00 per month, and $35,568.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive growth and increasing opportunities in the area's dynamic food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Line Cook in Wilmington varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table presents a general salary range based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.94 | $557.60 | $2,411.07 | $28,931.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.10 | $684.00 | $2,946.00 | $35,568.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.97 | $838.80 | $3,621.20 | $43,617.60 |
Do Line Cooks in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily kitchen-based with little direct customer interaction. Their earnings mainly consist of wages or salary from their employers.
Line Cook Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440 per year.
When compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Wilmington earn slightly less with an average hourly rate of $17.10 and yearly earnings around $35,568.
This difference can be influenced by local cost of living, demand in the culinary market, and regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks may earn higher wages include:
- Downtown Wilmington: $18.50 per hour
- Wrightsville Beach: $19.00 per hour
These areas often have upscale restaurants and resorts which may contribute to increased salary levels for kitchen staff including Line Cooks.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Wilmington:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Line Cooks who master cooking techniques and kitchen efficiency tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and resorts often pay more than casual or fast-food chains.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes come with higher pay.
- Certification and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety knowledge can boost earnings potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wilmington’s cost of living and hospitality industry demand influence prevailing wage levels.
How To Become a Line Cook in Wilmington
Starting as a Line Cook in Wilmington involves steps to develop skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on training and theoretical knowledge essential for aspiring cooks.
- Specialized Boot Camps: The North Carolina Barbecue Society Boot Camp provides focused training in traditional barbecue, enhancing cooking versatility.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and ensures knowledge of proper food handling practices for a safe kitchen environment.
- Get Certified as a Culinarian: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation marks foundational culinary skills and professionalism.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens provide valuable practical experience.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Wilmington
Some prominent local employers seeking Line Cooks include:
- Lutheran Services Carolinas
- Casablanca Coffee Roasters LLC
- Cape Fear Country Club
Establishments That Line Cooks in Wilmington Work At
Line Cooks find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work but generally moderate wages compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Often provide entry-level cooking roles with quicker shifts but lower pay.
- Hotels and Resort Kitchens: These establishments typically offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: Usually provide the highest pay due to demands for culinary skill and presentation.
The type of establishment directly impacts wage levels, benefits, and skill requirements for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Line Cooks
If you are interested in alternative but related roles within hospitality, consider:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Commis Chef – roles which involve culinary preparation and kitchen duties similar to those of Line Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Wilmington
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Line Cooks working in Wilmington.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on workplace rights and protections.
- For state-specific labor guidance, the North Carolina Department of Labor official site offers resources on wages, workplace safety, and employment standards.