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Line Cooks Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Gordon Ramsay North America

Line Cook

Washington, DC

$18 - $22.50/hr

Our Line Cooks are responsible for providing the Gordon Ramsay standard of remarkable experiences and exceptional hospitality to our guests. The Line Cook is responsible for menu recipe execution and ...

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$11

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$25

How much do line cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cooks in Washington 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 Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, attention to detail in food preparation, and often a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, commercial ovens, and food safety certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Excellent teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are essential to ensure food quality, maintain kitchen safety standards, and deliver timely service in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

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. In addition to base pay, some may receive tips, which can significantly increase total earnings. Salaries generally range from minimum wage to around $15-$20 per hour, with experienced cooks earning more in high-volume or upscale restaurants.

How much do line chefs get paid?

Line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and establishment type. Many also receive tips, which can significantly increase total earnings, especially in high-volume restaurants or those with a tipping culture. Salaries may vary based on skill level, certifications, and shift hours.

What is the difference between Line Cooks vs Prep Cooks?

AspectLine CooksPrep Cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen stations during service hoursPrepares ingredients before service, often in a separate prep area
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, hotels, cateringCommon in similar settings, supporting kitchen operations

Line Cooks focus on preparing dishes during service, working at specific stations, while Prep Cooks handle ingredient preparation beforehand. Both roles require culinary skills and work in busy kitchen environments, but their responsibilities differ based on timing and task complexity.

What are some common challenges faced by line cooks, and how can they be managed effectively?

Line cooks often work in high-pressure environments with tight deadlines, especially during busy meal services. Common challenges include maintaining consistency in food quality, managing multiple orders simultaneously, and communicating effectively with other kitchen staff. To manage these challenges, it’s important to stay organized, keep a clean workstation, and develop strong time-management skills. Building good teamwork and staying calm under pressure also help ensure smooth kitchen operations.

What exactly does a line cook do?

A line cook prepares and cooks food on the restaurant's line, following recipes and presentation standards. They work in a fast-paced environment, often focusing on specific stations such as grill, sauté, or salad, and need to coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely service.

What are line cooks?

Line cooks are culinary professionals responsible for preparing and cooking food in a restaurant or commercial kitchen. They work at specific stations along the kitchen 'line,' each specializing in a particular type of food, such as grill, sauté, or fry. Line cooks follow recipes, ensure proper food safety standards, and coordinate with other kitchen staff to prepare meals efficiently and consistently. Their role is essential for maintaining quality and timely service during busy meal periods.

How to get hired as a line cook?

To get hired as a line cook, applicants should have basic cooking skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and experience working in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Preparing a resume highlighting relevant experience and certifications, such as a food handler's permit, can improve chances. Applying directly to restaurants or through job boards and demonstrating reliability and teamwork are also important steps.
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Line Cooks jobs near you

Prep Cooks, Line Cooks, Dishwashers - Tatte Bethesda

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$19 - $22.70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Savory team members make all our dishes from scratch, with a deep commitment to uncompromising quality and craftsmanship. They are passionate about food and genuine hospitality, and work together as a team to prepare dishes in accordance with Tatte guidelines to ensure the highest quality while adhering to specific recipe and sanitation standards. We expect our savory team members to:

  • Have a desire to help where needed and work as part of a team
  • Possess a passion for cooking with a keen eye for freshness, quality and cleanliness
  • Live from Tatte’s core values and help Tatte deliver on its mission
  • Have flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including weekends, holidays, & afternoons/evenings
  • (Ideally, team members also have at least 1 year of experience successfully working in a fast-paced kitchen)

    Summary of Prep Cooks’ Primary Responsibilities

    • Follow prep lists created by chefs.
    • Label and stock all cooking ingredients
    • Complete all tasks, in order, on the prep list from the Head Chef or other kitchen manager
    • Washing, chopping, and sorting ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and meats
    • Measuring quantities of seasonings and other cooking ingredients
    • Adhere to all relevant nutrition and sanitary regulations and standards
    • Keeping track of ingredient inventory and collaborating with other kitchen and management staff to order resupply
    • Learn about the cooking methods and techniques employed in the kitchen
    • Ensuring all food items are properly stored and easily accessible
    • Supervising food and cooling room temperatures
    • Maintaining a clean, orderly, and sanitized kitchen
    • Assisting chefs in preparing food and attending to any culinary tasks that arise
    • Other duties as assigned

    Summary of Line Cooks’ Primary Responsibilities

    • Execute techniques under the direction of the Sous Chef and Executive Chef
    • Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality, and presentation standards
    • Prepare ingredients by portioning, chopping, weighing, measuring, and mixing ingredients
    • Operate ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, fryers, and other kitchen equipment
    • Ensure the correctness of the temperature of appliances and food
    • Actively set up and break down workstation and prepare for an upcoming shift
    • Wash and disinfect kitchen, tables, tools, knives, and equipment
    • Follow all company safety and security policies and procedures
    • Ensure adherence to quality expectations and standards
    • Assisting chefs in preparing food and attending to any culinary tasks that arise
    • Other duties as assigned

    Summary of Dishwashers’ Primary Responsibilities:

    • Responsible for proper care and maintenance of the dish machine
    • Must keep a clean supply of dishware, glassware, silverware and adequate supply of utensils and cookware throughout the shift
    • Must thrive in a fast-paced work environment while adhering to cleanliness and sanitation standards for the entire kitchen and dish area
    • Other duties as assigned

    Essential Functions/Working Conditions for all Savory Team Positions

    • Strong communication skills
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
    • Able to grasp and reach overhead
    • Must be able to lift, move, and carry 50+lbs
    • Must be able to work 8+ hours a day on feet

    Our Perks and Benefits:

    • Competitive Pay: Dishwashers earn $18.50–$20.10/hour. Prep Cooks earn $18.75–$21.00/hour. Line Cooks earn $19.00–$22.70/hour.
    • Health, dental and vision insurance for full time team members
    • 401(k) (with a vesting match)
    • Free employee assistance program services
    • Vacation Time (after 1 year of full-time service)
    • Paid sick time
    • Flexible schedule with no late nights
    • Free drinks and generously discounted meals
    • Exciting potential for growth

    Join us on our journey to create something special!

    Please note that Tatte is an E-Verify employer.