Cook Salary in Centennial, CO
Cooks in Centennial, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.46 per hour, which translates to about $778.40 per week, $3,373.07 per month, and $40,476.80 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Centennial is looking up with a positive growth of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the culinary field in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Centennial, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Centennial depends on experience, skills, and the employer, but broadly follows this range across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.44 | $657.60 | $2,850.40 | $34,204.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.46 | $778.40 | $3,373.07 | $40,476.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.03 | $921.20 | $3,976.53 | $47,822.40 |
Do Cooks in Centennial Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is generally behind the scenes in food preparation. Their income generally comes from their hourly wage or salary alone without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Centennial vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks make about $16.08 per hour, amounting to approximately $33,446.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Centennial earn a higher wage at $19.46 per hour and an annual salary of about $40,476.80, reflecting localized demand and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Centennial for Cooks
Nearby cities with attractive pay for Cooks include:
- Lone Tree: $22.40 per hour
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
Cooks working in Lone Tree can expect the highest pay nearby, with Denver offering competitive wages.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Centennial?
Several factors can affect how much a Cook earns in Centennial:
- Experience and Skill Level: Cooks with more experience or specialized culinary skills tend to secure higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining restaurants often pays more than casual or fast food environments.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or food safety certifications can improve job prospects and pay.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher compensation.
- Location Within the City: Salaries can vary depending on cost of living and demand in different neighborhoods.
How To Become a Cook in Centennial
Starting a career as a Cook in Centennial can be approached through several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Arapahoe Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with hands-on kitchen experience.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: Institutions such as Cook Street School of Culinary Arts provide intensive courses focusing on classical techniques and modern cuisine.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications including ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and required by many employers.
- Gain Entry-Level Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation is ideal for those starting out.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Centennial
Some major employers in Centennial actively hiring Cooks include:
- Qdoba
- Assisted Living Community
- Morrison Living
Establishments That Cooks in Centennial Work At
Cooks typically work across a variety of food service environments, each influencing salary potential:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often offer consistent hours but moderate pay.
- Casual Dining: Pay can be slightly higher with opportunity for advancement.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These can provide higher wages due to skill requirements and service expectations.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals, schools, or assisted living communities may offer stable employment with benefits.
The type of workplace strongly impacts earning potential, with more specialized kitchens generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Centennial for Cooks
If you are interested in career paths related to being a Cook, consider these roles that share similar skills and offer alternative opportunities:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Chef de Partie, which require culinary proficiency and can provide various career growth options.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Centennial
Cooks should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor regulations applicable to their job and compensation:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment guidelines.
- Refer to the State of Colorado's official website for localized employment and labor law resources.