Line Cook
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.75 - $19.50/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
$15.75 - $19.50/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
Des Moines, IA · On-site
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Des Moines, IA · On-site
$14.25 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $19/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $19/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$14.50 - $18/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Dubuque, IA · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
Dubuque, IA · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest ...
Line Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Line Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards. We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family! #MyOliveGardenFam
Lead Line Cook information
See Iowa salary details
$10.39 - $11.62
1% of jobs
$11.62 - $12.85
2% of jobs
$12.85 - $14.08
7% of jobs
$14.08 - $15.31
9% of jobs
$15.68 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.31 - $16.54
17% of jobs
The median wage is $17.57 / hr.
$16.54 - $17.78
16% of jobs
$17.78 - $19.01
18% of jobs
$19.53 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.01 - $20.24
11% of jobs
$20.24 - $21.47
9% of jobs
$21.47 - $22.70
6% of jobs
$22.70 - $23.93
3% of jobs
$10
$18
$23
How much do lead line cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead line cook in Iowa is $18.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a lead line cook?
Lead line cooks are experienced culinary professionals responsible for overseeing a particular section or station in the kitchen, ensuring that food is prepared correctly and on time. They supervise other line cooks, help with kitchen organization, and maintain high standards for food quality and safety. Lead line cooks often collaborate with the head chef and sous chef, assist with menu planning, and may train new kitchen staff. Their leadership is crucial to a kitchen's smooth and efficient operation.
What are some common challenges lead line cooks face when managing a busy kitchen shift?
Lead Line Cooks often juggle multiple tasks during peak hours, from overseeing food preparation and plating to coordinating with kitchen staff and communicating with front-of-house teams. Common challenges include maintaining consistency and quality under pressure, managing inventory shortages, and quickly resolving unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or staff absences. Effective time management, clear communication, and adaptability are essential to ensure smooth operations and uphold high culinary standards during busy shifts.
What is the difference between Lead Line Cook vs Line Cook?
| Aspect | Lead Line Cook | Line Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | Oversees station, mentors staff, ensures quality | Prepares dishes, follows recipes, maintains station |
| Credentials | Experience, culinary skills, leadership | Basic culinary training, experience preferred |
| Work Environment | Fast-paced kitchen, supervisory role | Kitchen station, food prep |
The Lead Line Cook typically has more experience and takes on supervisory duties, overseeing other cooks and ensuring quality standards. The Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes according to recipes and maintaining station efficiency. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Lead Line Cook also demonstrates leadership and organizational abilities.
Do lead line cooks make a lot of money?
Lead line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from minimum wage to higher rates depending on experience, location, and establishment type. In some cases, they can earn additional income through tips, especially in busy restaurants. Overall, their salary is generally moderate compared to executive chef roles but can increase with skill and responsibility.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead line cook?
To thrive as a Lead Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in high-volume kitchens, usually supported by a culinary degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Leadership, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food quality and safety, and foster a positive work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Line Cook jobs in IA? For Lead Line Cook jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
$14.25 - $18/hr
Other
Medical, Dental, Retirement
Re-posted 19 days ago
Olive Garden rating
6.4
Based on 1,022 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
29th of 88 rated restaurants
Job description
For this position pay will be variable by location - See additional job details and benefits below.
Our Winning Family Starts With You! Check out these great benefits!
- Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc.)
- Free Employee Meal! (limited menu)
- Weekly pay
- Anniversary pay
- Paid Sick Leave (1 hour for every 30 hours worked, begin accruing upon hire)
- Paid Family and Medical Leave (up to 2 weeks after 1 year of service)
- Medical/dental insurance
- Ongoing training to build critical skills for current and future roles
- Discounts on cellphones, travel, electronics & much more!
- 401(k) savings plan (Company match after 1 year of service)
- Management career advancement opportunities (50%+ of our managers are promoted from hourly positions!)
- State Benefits Overview
And much more! Because at Olive Garden, We’re All Family Here!
One key to our success is the high standards we set for ourselves and each other. That includes placing the health and safety of our team members and guests as a top priority. We are committed to the highest safety and sanitation practices, including ensuring team member wellness and maintaining clean restaurants.
In Italy and at Olive Garden, it is all about the food. As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and plate presentation to delight our guests. Our line cooks also have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards.
We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family!
#MyOliveGardenFam
What Olive Garden employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Olive Garden
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At Olive Garden, we know that life is better together and everyone is happiest when they’re with family. From never ending servings of our freshly baked breadsticks and iconic garden salad, to our homemade soups and sauces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. At Olive Garden, we make everyone feel like family and the communities we serve are an extension of that family. That’s why we are committed to supporting these communities in the fight against hunger. Every one of our 900+ restaurants participates in our Harvest program, donating high-quality, wholesome food to local nonprofit partners. We’re also long-term partners with Feeding America®, and since 2017, the Darden Foundation, the charitable arm of our parent company, has donated more than $16.3 million on behalf of our family of restaurants to support Feeding America member food banks across all 50 states. As part of these ongoing efforts to fight hunger, Olive Garden has partnered with Feeding America® to enhance mobile food pantry programs in communities where food insecurity rates are disproportionately high. Through grants from the Darden Foundation and additional support from Darden’s partners, Penske Truck Leasing and Lineage Logistics, 35 Feeding America food banks in 35 different parts of the country received a 26-foot refrigerated box truck to help increase address transportation needs and give access to nutritious food for those who need it most.
Industry
Food and beverage stores and restaurants
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Orlando, FL, US