Position
City
Salary

How much does a Line Cook make in Ames, IA?

The average salary for a Line Cook is $33,161 per year in Ames, IA.

In Ames, IA, line cooks earn an average yearly salary of $33,161. This figure helps job seekers gauge what they might expect to earn in this role. While this is the average, salaries can range from about $26,000 to $37,000. The majority of line cooks, 34.93%, earn around $34,000 per year. These figures provide a clear view of the potential earnings in this profession.


A closer look at the salary distribution shows that 43.95% of line cooks earn between $30,000 and $34,000. This range includes those making $31,000 to $33,000, which 15.37% of cooks earn. A smaller percentage, 11.18%, make $35,000 to $37,000. Those at the lower end, earning $26,000 to $30,000, make up 28.15% of the workforce. Understanding this distribution can help job seekers set realistic expectations for their earnings in this role.

Line Cook jobs in Ames, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook near Ames, IA?

Job seekers looking for a line cook position will find good opportunities in cities near Ames, IA. West Des Moines offers the highest average salary at $36,524, followed closely by Johnston at $35,417. This makes both cities attractive options for those seeking higher pay in the culinary field. Des Moines and Urbandale also provide competitive salaries for line cooks, with average earnings around $32,888 and $32,184, respectively. These cities offer good potential for anyone interested in the food service industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Line Cook jobs near Ames, IA, highlighting West Des Moines, IA with the highest at $36,524 and Fort Dodge, IA with the lowest at $31,778.
  1. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $36,524
    In West Des Moines, chefs work in top-notch restaurants that serve diverse dishes. These kitchens often require quick thinking and teamwork. Known for its high-quality dining, the city offers many chances to grow and learn.
    Find Line Cook jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  2. Johnston, IA
    Average Salary: $35,417
    Johnston has a variety of dining options from casual cafes to fine dining. Cooks here are expected to handle high demand efficiently. This city's growing food scene offers many opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Johnston, IA


  3. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $35,137
    Ankeny's kitchen environment focuses on quick service with a friendly atmosphere. Cooks here deal with a fast pace but enjoy a supportive team. The city's expanding culinary scene provides diverse work experiences.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Ankeny, IA


  4. Clive, IA
    Average Salary: $34,490
    Clive offers a mix of casual and upscale dining experiences. Cooks here need to adapt to different styles and demands. The city's vibrant food culture provides a dynamic work environment.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Clive, IA


  5. Boone, IA
    Average Salary: $33,227
    Boone's culinary scene includes both traditional and modern cuisines. Cooks here benefit from a relaxed yet focused kitchen atmosphere. The city’s unique food offerings provide interesting challenges.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Boone, IA


  6. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $33,129
    Ames features a mix of student-friendly and high-end dining options. Cooks here experience a dynamic environment with steady turnover. The city’s growing culinary scene offers many growth opportunities.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Ames, IA


  7. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $33,034
    Waterloo's kitchens are known for their efficient and fast-paced operations. Cooks here must work well under pressure. The city’s diverse food scene provides many learning experiences.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Waterloo, IA


  8. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $32,888
    Des Moines offers a wide range of dining establishments from trendy spots to classic restaurants. Cooks here face a fast-paced environment but enjoy a supportive team. The city’s rich food culture provides many opportunities.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Des Moines, IA


  9. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $32,184
    Urbandale has many family-friendly restaurants and trendy cafes. Cooks here work in a community-focused environment. The city’s diverse dining options offer varied experiences.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Urbandale, IA


  10. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $31,778
    Fort Dodge’s kitchens are known for their cozy and inviting atmosphere. Cooks here enjoy a close-knit team environment. The city’s welcoming food scene provides a friendly work atmosphere.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Fort Dodge, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Line Cook in Ames, IA?

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar offers a competitive average salary of $37,000 for Line Cooks. This makes it the top choice for those seeking a good income in Ames, IA. Levy Restaurants follows closely with an average salary of $34,000, making it another excellent option for job seekers. Both companies provide opportunities for career growth and a stable work environment. These salaries reflect a commitment to fair compensation and employee satisfaction.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Line Cook jobs in Ames, IA, highlighting Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar with the highest at $37,000 and Domino's with the lowest at $28,200.
  1. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar
    Average Salary: $37,000
    Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar offers exciting opportunities for Line Cooks. These positions involve preparing meals quickly and accurately. This company has locations across Ames, IA, providing a chance to work in a fast-paced environment that values teamwork. The kitchen here is busy, so fast thinking and multitasking are key skills.


  2. Levy Restaurants
    Average Salary: $34,000
    Levy Restaurants provides Line Cook positions with a supportive work culture. Workers here prepare and cook a variety of dishes, often in high-volume settings. The company operates multiple locations in Ames, IA, where Line Cooks enjoy the chance to grow with the company. Teamwork is important in these kitchens.


  3. Advanced Services Inc.
    Average Salary: $33,380
    At Advanced Services Inc., Line Cooks prepare meals for employees and guests. This role demands efficiency and attention to detail. The company has locations in Ames, IA, where Line Cooks work closely with kitchen staff. This position offers a chance to be part of a friendly team.


  4. MUCKY DUCK
    Average Salary: $33,333
    MUCKY DUCK is a local favorite in Ames, IA, and offers Line Cook jobs. In this role, cooks prepare meals for guests. The kitchen here is fast-paced and values creativity in dish preparation. This position allows cooks to be part of a welcoming team.


  5. Filling Station
    Average Salary: $32,500
    Filling Station offers Line Cook positions where cooks prepare meals for customers. This company operates in Ames, IA, providing a chance to work in a casual, friendly environment. The kitchen here is busy, so cooks need to be quick and organized.


  6. Domino's
    Average Salary: $28,200
    Domino's in Ames, IA, provides Line Cook jobs that focus on making pizzas quickly and to order specifications. This role involves working in a busy kitchen where teamwork is crucial. Domino's offers a supportive environment for those looking to grow in their culinary skills.

Currently 10,260 Line Cook job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Line Cook in the US?

Learn what a Line Cook does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Line Cook today.
Position
Overview
Line Cook
10,260 Job Openings