Chef Salary in Thornton, CO
Chefs in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.63 per hour, which translates to about $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Chefs in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and an expanding culinary industry in the region.
How Much Does a Chef Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Chef in Thornton varies based on experience levels, skills, and type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.02 | $640.80 | $2,776.40 | $33,309.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,402.53 | $40,830.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,156.27 | $49,995.20 |
Do Chefs in Thornton Earn Tips?
Chefs typically do not earn direct tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. Instead, their earnings come primarily from their hourly wage or salary.
Chef Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Chefs earn an average of around $16.09 per hour, translating to about $33,467.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Chefs in Thornton earn higher wages, with about $19.63 per hour and $40,830.40 annually. This reflects a stronger market and possibly higher living costs in the Thornton area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Chefs:
- Lone Tree: $22.43 per hour
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
Chefs working in Lone Tree or Denver may earn more than those based in Thornton, which can impact commuting and job choice decisions.
What Influences a Chef’s Salary in Thornton?
Experience and expertise play a key role in shaping a Chef’s salary. Experienced Chefs with strong culinary skills earn more.
Type of establishment—such as upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services—greatly affects pay scales.
Specialized skills, like pastry making or international cuisine proficiency, may boost earnings.
Leadership roles or managing kitchen staff can also increase compensation.
Lastly, the local market demand and cost of living in Thornton will influence wage levels.
How To Become a Chef in Thornton
Becoming a Chef in Thornton involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs such as those offered at Emily Griffith Technical College or the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. These programs provide practical and theoretical culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications, including the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is nationally recognized and essential for culinary professionals.
- Consider Advanced Certifications like the Certified Sous Chef (CSC) by the American Culinary Federation to showcase advanced skills and leadership.
- Gain Hands-on Experience by working in kitchen environments to build practical skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Thornton
Some prominent employers in Thornton looking for skilled Chefs include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Chefs in Thornton Work At
Chefs in Thornton typically work in a range of establishments:
- Fine dining restaurants often provide higher salaries and opportunities for creativity.
- Casual and family dining venues may offer steady employment with moderate wages.
- Hotels and resorts employ chefs to cater to diverse clientele, often with competitive benefits.
- Catering companies and banquet halls provide opportunities to work on large events which can influence pay.
Each type of establishment influences salary based on prestige, clientele, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Chef
If you are considering careers related to being a Chef, you might look into these similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, which carry related culinary and managerial responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Chef in Thornton
Chefs working in Thornton should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- For comprehensive state labor laws, visit the State of Colorado official website.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.