Cook Salary in Greeley, CO
Cooks in Greeley, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Greeley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market with positive employment prospects in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Greeley, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Greeley can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Greeley Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their compensation mostly comes from base wages without tips.
Cook Salary in Greeley vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Greeley earn a higher hourly wage of $18.00 per hour and $37,440 per year, reflecting local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greeley for Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Cooks include:
- Downtown Greeley: $19.00 per hour
- West Greeley: $20.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly better salaries than the city average, making them attractive for Cooks seeking higher pay.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Greeley?
Several factors influence the salary of a Cook in Greeley, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Cooks with sharpened culinary skills typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Having certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian can enhance pay prospects.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with premium pay.
- Local Demand: Locations with higher demand for culinary professionals can offer better wages.
How To Become a Cook in Greeley
To become a Cook in Greeley, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Aims Community College Culinary Arts Program for hands-on training.
- Explore Related Studies: The University of Northern Colorado’s Hospitality and Tourism Program also offers relevant courses for culinary career development.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler are commonly required by employers in Colorado.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates foundational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Greeley
Notable employers often hiring Cooks in Greeley include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Greeley Work At
Cooks in Greeley find employment in a variety of food service establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Generally offer entry-level opportunities with moderate pay.
- Casual Dining: These places may provide better wages and more structured environments.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Higher pay is common here, reflecting increased skill and responsibility demands.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments often require versatility and may provide additional benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, job responsibilities, and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greeley for Cooks
If you’re considering related careers in hospitality, here are some similar roles to Cook:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Head Chef positions, which might offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Greeley
Cooks should understand labor laws and tax requirements relevant to Colorado to protect their rights and manage finances adequately.
- Visit the State of Colorado's official website for information on labor laws, taxes, and employment resources.
- For federal labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website.