Cook Salary in Loveland, CO
Cooks in Loveland, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which amounts to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Loveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary sector within the region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Loveland, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Loveland can vary widely depending on the level of experience. Entry-level cooks earn less while those with more experience tend to earn more.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.48 | $619.20 | $2,683.20 | $32,198.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,042.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.91 | $796.40 | $3,444.67 | $41,372.80 |
Do Cooks in Loveland Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing food rather than serving customers directly. Their compensation is mainly from hourly wages or salary.
Cook Salary in Loveland vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Cooks is approximately $17.55 per hour, with an annual salary around $36,504.
Cooks in Loveland earn roughly the same as the national average, reflecting a competitive wage scale aligned with nationwide standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Loveland for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks:
- Downtown Loveland: $18.50 per hour
- Centerra: $19.00 per hour
Those working in Centerra may earn a bit more compared to Downtown Loveland, indicating some local variation in wages.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Loveland?
Several factors play a role in influencing a Cook’s salary in Loveland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with specialized culinary skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay compared to fast casual or smaller diners.
- Certifications: Possession of culinary certifications or food safety qualifications can improve job prospects and pay rates.
- Work Hours and Shift: Night or holiday shifts may include pay differentials.
- Local Demand and Economy: Regional economic health and demand for culinary workers impact salary scales.
How To Become a Cook in Loveland
Starting a career as a Cook in Loveland involves some key steps to build skills and credentials:
- Education and Training: Consider enrolling in culinary arts programs such as those offered by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder or the Colorado Mountain College Culinary Arts Program in Breckenridge for comprehensive training.
- Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers. Additionally, earning the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential by the American Culinary Federation can enhance employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Cooks start in entry-level kitchen roles to gain hands-on experience.
- Networking: Engage with local culinary communities and job fairs to connect with potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Loveland
Some of the key employers in Loveland looking for qualified Cooks include:
- Riverbend Health Care Center
- Oak View Group
- Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
Establishments That Cooks in Loveland Work At
Cooks in Loveland commonly work at a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady hours and moderate pay, suitable for early career Cooks.
- Fast Casual Chains: These venues may have high volume but typically offer lower pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to provide higher wages and opportunity for skill development.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Facilities like hospitals may pay competitively and offer stable employment.
Salary levels differ based on the establishment’s scale, clientele, and prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Loveland for Cooks
If you’re exploring similar career paths in hospitality, consider roles closely related to Cook, which might expand your opportunities:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which involve similar culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Loveland
Cooks should be familiar with labor laws governing their employment and tax responsibilities:
- Visit the Colorado government website for official information on state labor laws, wage regulations, and worker rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources on federal labor standards, wage requirements, and workplace safety.