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Line Chef Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

XCAL

Cook/Line Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA

$16 - $20.25/hr

... Line Prep Cook to prepare food to specifications and set up stations for menu ... The duties will consist of assisting the Executive and Sous Chef with their daily tasks. The ...

XCAL

Cook/Line Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Line Prep Cook to prepare food to specifications and set up stations for menu ... The duties will consist of assisting the Executive and Sous Chef with their daily tasks. The ...

XCAL

Cook/Line Prep Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Line Prep Cook to prepare food to specifications and set up stations for menu ... The duties will consist of assisting the Executive and Sous Chef with their daily tasks. The ...

Glenstone Museum

Line Cook

Potomac, MD

$23 - $25/hr

Position Line Cook Reports to Chef Schedule Wednesday through Sunday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Summer Evenings Saturdays, 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM Wage $23 - $25 per hour An Introduction to Glenstone Museum ...

Lib's Grill

Line Cook

Fulton, MD

$15 - $20/hr

A Line Cook is in charge of preparing food and setting up other necessary supplies. They make sure ... Answer, report and follow executive or sous chef's instructions * Clean up station and take care of ...

Lib's Grill

Line Cook

Fulton, MD · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

A Line Cook is in charge of preparing food and setting up other necessary supplies. They make sure ... Answer, report and follow executive or sous chef's instructions * Clean up station and take care of ...

The Salt Line - Bethesda

Sous Chef

Bethesda, MD

$55K - $70K/yr

Sous Chef - The Salt Line Bethesda (Long Shot Hospitality) Exciting opportunity to join the team at The Salt Line Bethesda and be part of the Long Shot Hospitality family-- 2024 RAMMY Award winners ...

The Park at 14th

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Role As Sous Chef, you're the Executive Chef's right handrunning the line during service, leading and developing the kitchen team, and upholding our standards for quality, consistency, and ...

The Park at 14th

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Role As Sous Chef, you're the Executive Chef's right hand-running the line during service, leading and developing the kitchen team, and upholding our standards for quality, consistency, and ...

The Park at 14th

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$70K - $75K/yr

The Role As Sous Chef, you're the Executive Chef's right hand-running the line during service, leading and developing the kitchen team, and upholding our standards for quality, consistency, and ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Seasons 52

Sous Chef

North Bethesda, MD

$62K - $75K/yr

The Sous Chef contributes to building top line sales and guest count through the delivery of a competitively superior team member and guest experience. The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef to ...

Revel Restaurant

Senior Sous Chef

Alexandria, VA

$55K/yr

Work the line alongside the kitchen team during service, executing dishes with precision, speed ... Uphold the Executive Chef's standards for plating, portioning, and quality on every ticket * Manage ...

José Andrés Group

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

You'll run the line during assigned services, coach cooks, manage station pars and ticket flow ... Chef de Cuisine/Executive Chef to deliver consistent quality, speed, and teamwork. Key ...

Jose Andres Group

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

You'll run the line during assigned services, coach cooks, manage station pars and ticket flow ... Chef de Cuisine/Executive Chef to deliver consistent quality, speed, and teamwork. Key ...

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All JobsLine Chef JobsLine Chef Jobs in Washington, DC

Line Chef information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do line chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for line chef in Washington, DC is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Line Chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Chef, you need proficiency in food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen safety, often supported by culinary training or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work under pressure set top performers apart in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a safe, collaborative workplace.

Do line cooks make money?

Line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location, experience, and establishment, with many earning minimum wage or slightly above. Tips can also significantly increase their total income, especially in busy restaurants. Salaries generally range from minimum wage to around $15-$20 per hour for experienced cooks.

What is the job of a line chef?

A line chef, also known as a station chef or cook, is responsible for preparing specific dishes or sections of a menu in a professional kitchen. They work on the kitchen line, following recipes and standards, often under the supervision of a head chef, and typically require knowledge of cooking techniques and kitchen safety. The role involves multitasking in a fast-paced environment to ensure timely and quality food service.

What is the difference between Line Chef vs Prep Cook?

AspectLine ChefPrep Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma, culinary training, certificationsHigh school diploma, basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, station-specific tasksPrepares ingredients, less hectic environment
ResponsibilitiesCooking, plating, station managementChopping, measuring, basic prep work
Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in similar settings, often as entry-level

While both roles are essential in a kitchen, a Line Chef is responsible for cooking and managing a specific station during service, requiring more experience and skills. A Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients and basic tasks, often serving as a stepping stone to a Line Chef position.

How much do line chefs get paid?

Line chefs typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and establishment. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced chefs in high-demand areas can earn higher wages and tips. Many line cooks also receive benefits such as meal discounts and flexible schedules.

What are some common challenges a Line Chef faces during busy service hours, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak service hours, Line Chefs often face the challenge of maintaining speed and consistency while preparing multiple dishes simultaneously. Effective time management, strong communication with other kitchen staff, and a thorough understanding of the menu are crucial to prevent errors and reduce stress. Staying organized, keeping a clean workstation, and being adaptable to last-minute changes help Line Chefs deliver high-quality dishes under pressure. Building a good rapport with the team also ensures smooth coordination during rush periods.

What are line chefs?

Line chefs, also known as line cooks, are culinary professionals responsible for preparing and cooking food on the 'line' in a restaurant kitchen. They typically work at specific stations, such as grill, sauté, or salad, and follow recipes and plating guidelines set by the head chef or sous chef. Line chefs ensure food quality, portion control, and timely service during busy meal periods. They also help with kitchen prep, maintain cleanliness, and collaborate with other kitchen staff to provide a smooth dining experience.

How to get hired as a line cook?

To get hired as a line cook, applicants should have previous kitchen experience, basic cooking skills, and knowledge of food safety standards. Preparing a professional resume highlighting relevant skills and certifications, such as ServSafe, can improve chances. Applying directly to restaurants or through job boards and demonstrating reliability and teamwork are also important steps.
Line Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Line Chef job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,301 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Line Cook - The Gathering Spot D.C.

Line Cook - The Gathering Spot D.C.

The Gathering Spot

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a professional Line Cook to prepare food to the exact Chef’s specifications and to support The Gathering Spot's onsite restaurant. Line Cook duties will consist of assisting the Executive and Sous Chef with their daily restaurant & event prep. The successful candidate will play a key role in contributing to our customer satisfaction and acquisition goals.

Responsibilities:

  • Set up and stocking stations with all necessary supplies
  • Prepare food for service (e.g. chopping vegetables, butchering meat, or preparing sauces)
  • Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff
  • Answer, report and follow Executive or Sous Chef’s instructions
  • Clean up station and take care of leftover food
  • Stock inventory appropriately
  • Ensure that food comes out simultaneously, in high quality and in a timely fashion
  • Comply with nutrition and sanitation regulations and safety standards
  • Maintain a positive and professional approach with coworkers and customers

Requirements:

  • Proven cooking experience, including experience as a line chef, restaurant cook or prep cook
  • Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and procedures
  • Accuracy and speed in executing assigned tasks
  • Familiar with industry’s best practices
  • Culinary school diploma

Physical Requirements: 

  • Prolonged periods standing and preparing and cooking food. 
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times. 
  • Must be able to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to extreme heat or cold.

The Gathering Spot is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical​​​ condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or ​expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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