Chef Salary in Fort-Collins, CO
Chefs in Fort-Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.27 per hour, which translates to about $770.80 per week, $3,340.13 per month, and $40,081.60 per year.
The job market for Chefs in Fort-Collins is growing steadily with a 5% increase in demand per year, indicating a promising future for individuals pursuing culinary careers in this area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Fort-Collins, CO?
The salary of a Chef in Fort-Collins varies with experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.95 | $598.00 | $2,589.33 | $31,096.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.27 | $770.80 | $3,340.13 | $40,081.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.85 | $994.00 | $4,289.33 | $51,688.00 |
Do Chefs in Fort-Collins Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn tips as their primary role is preparation and cooking, rather than direct customer interaction. However, in some venues, they might receive occasional gratuities or bonus incentives, but this is not the standard.
Chef Salary in Fort-Collins vs. National Average
The national average salary for Chefs is about $19.27 per hour or approximately $40,081.60 per year.
Chefs in Fort-Collins earn around the national average, providing a competitive wage consistent with the broader U.S. culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort-Collins for Chefs
Nearby areas offer slightly different wages for Chefs:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Midtown: $21.00 per hour
Chefs working in these neighborhoods may find marginally higher earnings compared to Fort-Collins overall.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Fort-Collins?
Several factors have a big impact on what Chefs can earn in Fort-Collins:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Chefs with specialties in cuisines or advanced cooking techniques command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts generally pays more than casual dining or fast-food settings.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary degrees, diplomas, or certifications such as ServSafe increase earning potential.
- Management Roles: Chefs who also manage kitchen staff or operations often receive higher compensation.
- Local Demand and Competition: Higher demand for quality dining in Fort-Collins can drive up wages.
How To Become a Chef in Fort-Collins
To embark on a career as a Chef in Fort-Collins, here are important steps to consider:
- Obtain Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as those offered at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder, which provides diplomas and associate degrees focused on both classical and contemporary culinary techniques.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is a widely recognized program ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices essential for any Chef.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Start working in various kitchen roles to build valuable hands-on skills.
- Network and Continue Learning: Attend culinary workshops, events, and stages to broaden expertise and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Fort-Collins
Several prominent employers actively seek skilled Chefs in Fort-Collins, including:
- The Elizabeth Hotel
- Sage Hospitality
- Snowfox
Establishments That Chefs in Fort-Collins Work At
Chefs in Fort-Collins can be found working in a variety of foodservice establishments. Common ones include:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues provide comfortable atmospheres and steady work for Chefs but may offer moderate wages compared to upscale dining.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Chefs here focus on quick, quality meals with some culinary creativity; pay can be competitive but varies widely.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: These establishments typically offer the highest salaries and the opportunity to work with complex menus and gourmet ingredients.
- Catering Companies: Chefs create diverse menus for events, often requiring flexibility and creativity, which can impact compensation.
The type of establishment notably affects Chef salaries, with larger, high-end venues generally providing better pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort-Collins for Chefs
For those interested in roles related to the Chef profession, here are some similar career options worth considering.
These positions include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager, all offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges within the culinary and hospitality fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Fort-Collins
Chefs working in Fort-Collins should familiarize themselves with important labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper workplace rights.
- Visit the official State of Colorado website for regulations related to wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive federal guidelines on labor standards and employee protections applicable to Chefs.