Chef Salary in Longmont, CO
Chefs in Longmont, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job outlook for Chefs in Longmont is positive with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in demand for skilled culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Longmont, CO?
The salary of a Chef in Longmont depends on experience and other factors. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Chefs in Longmont Earn Tips?
Chefs in Longmont typically do not earn tips as their role is mainly behind the scenes in food preparation. Their income mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wage, although in some establishments, chefs might receive bonuses or incentive pay based on performance.
Chef Salary in Longmont vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, or approximately $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Longmont, CO, Chefs earn slightly below the national average at an hourly rate of $13.90 and a yearly salary of $28,912. This difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Longmont for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Chefs, including:
- Lower Clover Basin: $15.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.60 per hour
Chefs working in East Side can expect higher earnings compared to those in Lower Clover Basin or Longmont itself, potentially due to differences in demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Longmont?
Several factors affect how much a Chef can earn in Longmont, including:
- Experience: Chefs with more years of culinary experience generally command higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines or culinary techniques can boost salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Chefs working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts often earn more than those in casual or fast-food venues.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Location: Chefs working in higher-paying neighboring areas may receive better compensation than those in Longmont proper.
How To Become a Chef in Longmont
Starting a Chef career in Longmont involves several steps to build the necessary skills and qualifications.
- Enroll in culinary education programs: Institutions such as Front Range Community College offer a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program in Longmont, which covers cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Consider nearby culinary schools: The Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder provides professional training focusing on classical and farm-to-table culinary practices.
- Obtain food safety certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler ensure knowledge of safe food handling, essential for Chef roles.
- Pursue advanced credentials: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) designation from the American Culinary Federation recognizes high culinary expertise and leadership skills.
- Gain hands-on experience: Working apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level kitchen roles can build practical skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Longmont
Several companies and restaurants in Longmont actively hire Chefs, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Chefs in Longmont Work At
Chefs typically find employment in a range of establishment types, such as:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants usually have moderate pay scales but offer steady employment opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often have lower wages but may offer more entry-level positions and faster promotion paths.
- Hotels and Resorts: These tend to pay higher salaries due to the scale and prestige of operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: These establishments generally offer the highest wages, reflecting the specialized skills required.
The type of establishment directly impacts the earning potential and work environment for Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Longmont for Chefs
If you are interested in careers related to being a Chef, you might consider the following similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager, which have overlapping culinary and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chefs in Longmont
Chefs should stay informed on important federal and state labor regulations that affect their employment rights and tax duties.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado-specific labor laws and regulations can be found on the State of Colorado's official website.