Cook Salary in Longmont, CO
Cooks in Longmont, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Longmont is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary job market.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Longmont, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Longmont varies depending on experience level and specific employer. Below is an overview of earnings based on skill and seniority.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Cooks in Longmont Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips since they work primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than direct customer service. Their income is mostly derived from regular wages without gratuities.
Cook Salary in Longmont vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn approximately $14.50 per hour or about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to this, Cooks in Longmont earn slightly more with an average hourly wage of $16.50 and an annual salary of about $34,320.00.
This reflects factors such as local cost of living and employer demand within the Colorado region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Longmont for Cooks
Nearby areas of Longmont offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- 80501 (Longmont): $16.50 per hour
- 80503 (Longmont): $18.00 per hour
Those working in the 80503 zip code may earn slightly higher wages compared to 80501.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Longmont?
Several key factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Longmont:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks or those with specialized skills in certain cuisines often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants or catering services usually offers better wages compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with increased rates or shift differentials.
- Certifications and Culinary Training: Possessing culinary certifications or completion of formal education can boost salary prospects.
- Local Economic Factors: Longmont’s labor market dynamics and cost of living play into wage levels.
How To Become a Cook in Longmont
Becoming a Cook in Longmont involves several pathways to gain skills and credentials:
- Attend a Culinary Program: Front Range Community College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program providing hands-on cooking techniques and kitchen management training.
- Consider Professional Training: The Escoffier School of Culinary Arts Boulder Campus nearby provides professional culinary training emphasizing classical methods and farm-to-table practices.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and required by many employers to ensure safe food handling.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential from the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level certification demonstrating foundational culinary knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens, even starting at entry-level roles, helps build essential cook skills.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Longmont
Several prominent employers in Longmont actively seek Cooks, including:
- IHOP
- Wingstop
- Sugar Pine Catering
- New Horizon Academy Colorado, Inc
Establishments That Cooks in Longmont Work At
Cooks in Longmont are employed across various types of dining venues, each impacting salaries differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment and average wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often have volume-driven kitchens with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May provide better wages and additional benefits.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: Sometimes pay premiums for specialized cooking skills.
The nature and prestige of the establishment influence how much a Cook can earn, with upscale or specialized venues often paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Longmont for Cooks
Those interested in careers related to cooking can explore roles with similar skills and responsibilities.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions each involving culinary skills but with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Longmont
Cooks in Longmont should be familiar with important labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Check the Official website of the State of Colorado for state-specific employment standards, minimum wage laws, and tax details.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws, wage standards, and occupational guidelines.