Cook Salary in Aurora, CO
Cooks in Aurora, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $18.48 per hour, which translates to about $739.20 per week, $3,203.20 per month, and $38,438.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Aurora is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market for culinary professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Aurora can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.94 | $557.60 | $2,411.73 | $28,899.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.48 | $739.20 | $3,203.20 | $38,438.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.49 | $979.60 | $4,230.13 | $50,939.20 |
Do Cooks in Aurora, CO Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their duties are primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than interacting directly with customers. Their earnings mainly come from their hourly wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Aurora, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of about $18.48 per hour, which amounts to approximately $38,438.40 annually.
In comparison, Cooks in Aurora earn very close to this national average, reflecting a typical market rate for culinary workers in this area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Cooks:
- Area 1: $20.50 per hour
- Area 2: $22.00 per hour
These neighboring regions present promising opportunities for higher wages, which may attract Cooks seeking better compensation close to Aurora.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Aurora, CO?
A variety of factors impact the salary of a Cook in Aurora, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants usually pays more than casual dining or fast-food establishments.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Overnight or holiday shifts may include shift differentials increasing overall pay.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian can lead to better job prospects and salaries.
- Local Market Demand: Higher demand in Aurora affects wage levels positively.
How To Become a Cook in Aurora, CO
Becoming a Cook in Aurora involves several important steps to gain necessary skills and certifications.
Education and Training: Consider enrolling in culinary programs like the Community College of Aurora Culinary Arts Program or the Emily Griffith Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offer practical skills and hands-on experience in modern kitchens.
Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices. Additionally, earn the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to validate foundational culinary expertise.
Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships can build valuable experience.
Networking: Connecting with local chefs and culinary professionals can open doors for employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Aurora, CO
Several notable employers in Aurora actively hire Cooks, including well-known restaurant chains such as:
- P.F. Chang's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Cooks in Aurora, CO Work At
Cooks in Aurora typically find employment in a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate pay and opportunities for skill development.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Often have structured pay scales and more predictable hours.
- Fine Dining: Higher-skill environments that may come with higher wages and expectations for expertise.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer benefits and higher pay due to volume and event-based operations.
The type of establishment directly influences salary, with fine dining and specialty venues generally offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora, CO for Cook
If you are exploring similar culinary career paths, consider these related roles that share skills and industry connections:
These careers include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, roles that may offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Aurora, CO
Cooks in Aurora should be aware of local and state labor laws to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Official website of the State of Colorado provides detailed information on state regulations and employment standards.
- Official website of the City of Aurora offers resources related to local labor laws, taxes, and workplace regulations.