Line Cook Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Line Cooks in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.65 per hour, which translates to about $626.00 per week, $2,712.67 per month, and $32,552.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Winston-Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an expanding job market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Line Cook in Winston-Salem can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general snapshot of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.24 | $489.60 | $2,115.20 | $25,401.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.65 | $626.00 | $2,712.67 | $32,552.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work primarily in the kitchen behind the scenes. Their earnings mostly come through hourly wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440.00 per year.
When compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Winston-Salem earn slightly less, with an average of $15.65 per hour and $32,552.00 annually. This difference may relate to regional cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.00 per hour
- West End: $16.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Winston-Salem might bring higher pay compared to other neighborhoods, making it an attractive option for Line Cooks.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Winston-Salem:
- Experience Level: More experienced Line Cooks tend to command higher wages as their skills and efficiency improve.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines or cooking techniques can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining spots.
- Shift Times: Night or weekend shifts might come with additional compensation or shift differentials.
- Local Demand and Competition: Economic conditions and the number of available jobs influence salaries in the culinary sector.
How To Become a Line Cook in Winston-Salem
To become a skilled Line Cook in Winston-Salem, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Forsyth Tech Culinary Arts Program and Salem College Culinary Studies offer solid foundations in culinary skills relevant to this role.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are crucial and often required by employers to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification offered by the American Culinary Federation provides a credential demonstrating fundamental culinary knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs or apprenticeships provide hands-on experience essential for career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Winston-Salem
Some of the leading employers in Winston-Salem actively hiring Line Cooks include:
- Longhorn Steakhouse
- The Village Tavern
- Sage and Salt Bistro
Establishments That Line Cooks in Winston-Salem Work At
Line Cooks in Winston-Salem work across diverse types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wages and opportunities to develop culinary skills.
- Fast-Casual Chains: Typically have a faster pace with standardized menus; wages may be moderate.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Usually pay higher wages reflecting skills and experience required, along with possible advancement chances.
- Hotel and Catering Kitchens: Larger institutions may offer better benefits and pay scale.
The nature and prestige of the establishment can have a significant effect on salary and career trajectory for a Line Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Line Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Line Cook, here are few similar careers worth considering:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, all of which share skills and responsibilities related to line cooking.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Winston-Salem
It is important for Line Cooks to be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations. Key resources include:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for detailed federal guidelines.
- Check out the North Carolina Department of Labor website for state-specific labor laws and resources to understand local employment standards.