Cook Salary in Arvada, CO
Cooks in Arvada, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.51 per hour, which translates to about $780.40 per week, $3,381.73 per month, and $40,580.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Arvada is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary sector.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Arvada, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Arvada varies depending on experience and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of salaries at different experience levels for the Cook position in Arvada, CO.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.80 | $632.00 | $2,735.33 | $32,864.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.51 | $780.40 | $3,381.73 | $40,580.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.10 | $964.00 | $4,169.33 | $50,128.00 |
Do Cooks in Arvada Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is mostly limited to wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Arvada vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, which translates to about $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Arvada earn a higher wage with an average hourly pay of $19.51 and an annual salary of $40,580.80. This reflects the local economic conditions and demand for culinary professionals in Arvada, CO.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arvada for Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Cooks:
- Lone Tree: $22.43 per hour
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
These nearby locations provide higher average pay, which may attract Cooks willing to commute for better compensation.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Arvada?
The salary of a Cook in Arvada is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced techniques or specialization can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks working in upscale or fine dining restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast food establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary training and certifications boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evenings, weekends, or overtime can increase overall pay.
- Local Market Demand: Economic conditions and local demand for culinary professionals play a significant role.
How To Become a Cook in Arvada
Starting a career as a Cook in Arvada involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at Red Rocks Community College offers apprenticeship-style training combining on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree over three years.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required for Cooks in Colorado and ensures knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions as prep cooks or kitchen assistants help build essential skills.
- Seek Opportunities for Advancement: Developing culinary techniques and leadership skills can open doors to higher-paying Cook positions.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Arvada
Popular employers recruiting Cooks in Arvada, CO, include:
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Red Robin
- Old Chicago
Establishments That Cooks in Arvada Work At
Cooks in Arvada typically work in diverse types of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual chains, family-owned diners, and catering companies.
Each type of establishment affects earning potential. For example:
- Casual Dining: Often offers moderate wages with some opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual: Usually provides steady hours and competitive pay but less opportunity for tips.
- Fine Dining or Specialty Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages due to expectations for culinary expertise.
- Catering and Event Services: May offer variable pay depending on event schedules and demand.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arvada for Cooks
If you are interested in jobs similar to Cook, consider the following career options:
These include Commis Chef, Line Cook, and Chef de Partie — roles that require similar culinary skills and have overlapping salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Arvada
Cooks should be aware of labor laws and taxation rules that affect employment and compensation:
- For federal labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado-specific employment regulations and labor resources are available at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website.