Line Cook - $16.5 to $23 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Olive Garden is a renowned Italian-themed casual dining restaurant known for its warm hospitality, delicious menu offerings, and family-style dining experience. As part of Darden Restaurants, Olive Garden has built a reputation for quality food and exceptional service across its many locations. The company values its employees as an integral part of the family, fostering a supportive work environment where team members are encouraged to grow and develop their skills. With a strong commitment to safety, sanitation, and guest satisfaction, Olive Garden strives to create a dining experience that feels like home to every guest who walks through its doors.
The Line Cook position at Olive Garden is a vital role responsible for the preparation and execution of menu items in a fast-paced kitchen environment. This role requires a deep passion for food and a meticulous approach to plate presentation, ensuring that each dish meets the high standards of taste and appearance the restaurant is known for. The Line Cook collaborates closely with kitchen team members to maintain safety and sanitation practices and to deliver timely service that delights guests. This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $16.50 to $23.00, reflecting experience and skill level, and provides a range of benefits designed to support employee well-being and professional growth.
Employees at Olive Garden enjoy flexible scheduling to help balance work with other life commitments such as school, childcare, or family care. The restaurant offers a free employee meal with a limited menu, weekly pay, and anniversary pay to reward tenure. Paid sick leave accrues at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked starting from the day of hire. Additionally, employees who remain with the company for one year are eligible for paid family and medical leave for up to two weeks. Medical and dental insurance plans are available to support health needs. The company also invests in ongoing training to help team members build critical skills for their current and future roles.
Other notable benefits include discounts on cellphones, travel, electronics, and more, as well as a 401(k) savings plan with company match after one year of service. Olive Garden is proud that more than 50% of its managers are promoted from hourly positions, highlighting its strong culture of career advancement and employee development. The company places great emphasis on maintaining a safe and sanitized environment, prioritizing the health and wellness of both employees and guests. Joining Olive Garden means becoming part of a family that values dedication, teamwork, and a genuine love for Italian cuisine and hospitality.
                - High school diploma or equivalent
 - prior kitchen or food preparation experience preferred
 - ability to stand and walk for extended periods
 - availability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
 - capability to follow detailed recipes and safety procedures
 - good manual dexterity and physical stamina