Cook Salary in Fort Collins, CO
Cooks in Fort Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.83 per hour, which translates to about $753.20 per week, $3,263.87 per month, and $39,166.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Fort Collins is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary sector within this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Fort Collins, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Fort Collins can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,561.33 | $30,708.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.83 | $753.20 | $3,263.87 | $39,166.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.24 | $1,129.60 | $4,879.73 | $58,739.20 |
Do Cooks in Fort Collins Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes. Their earnings come mainly from their hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Fort Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour, translating to about $33,488 per year.
Comparatively, Cooks in Fort Collins earn higher wages, at about $18.83 per hour and $39,166.40 annually, which reflects the regional economic conditions and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Collins for Cooks
Nearby areas in Fort Collins offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Midtown: $18.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Fort Collins tend to earn a slightly higher wage compared to Midtown.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Fort Collins?
Several factors influence the salary of a Cook in Fort Collins:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty cuisine venues often pay more than casual dining spots.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications like ServSafe can boost employability and salary.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts may come with wage differentials.
- Local Demand: The positive 5% job growth indicates increasing opportunities and competitive pay.
How To Become a Cook in Fort Collins
Starting as a Cook in Fort Collins involves a few key steps to enhance your career prospects:
- Attend Cooking Classes: You can enroll in hands-on culinary courses like those offered by Farm Fusion in the Kitchen or nutrition-focused workshops at Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center Cooking Classes at Colorado State University.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The widely recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification is frequently required to ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Earning Culinary Credentials: Consider earning the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation to demonstrate foundational culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level positions and learning on the job is an effective path toward becoming a skilled Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Fort Collins
Some of the leading employers seeking Cooks in Fort Collins include:
- Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
- Urban Egg
- First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
Establishments That Cooks in Fort Collins Work At
Cooks typically find employment in a variety of establishments across Fort Collins:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and wages that can vary depending on the restaurant’s size and clientele.
- Fast Casual Spots: Offer somewhat lower wages but greater pace and volume.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May provide higher pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: Often require specialized skills and can offer competitive salaries.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary range due to differences in skill requirements, customer base, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Collins for Cooks
If you are exploring career options related to being a Cook, consider these similar roles:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef positions, which share culinary skills and require various levels of expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Fort Collins
If you're working as a Cook in Fort Collins, it’s important to be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations. Consider these resources for guidance: