Cook Salary in Thornton, CO
Cooks in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.63 per hour, which translates to about $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding market with increasing opportunities for culinary professionals in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Cook in Thornton depends on experience and employer, with earnings varying across different skill levels and workplaces.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.02 | $640.80 | $2,774.40 | $33,309.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,402.53 | $40,830.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,156.53 | $49,963.20 |
Do Cooks in Thornton Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is usually behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings come primarily from wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn on average about $16.09 per hour, which is roughly $33,467.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Thornton earn a higher hourly rate at $19.63 per hour and an annual salary of around $40,830.40.
This premium likely reflects local market factors, including cost of living, demand for culinary skills, and regional employer practices.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Cooks, including:
- Topgolf: $30.00 per hour
- Buffalo Wild Wings: $17.79 per hour
Cooks employed at Topgolf in the region can anticipate significantly higher wages, while traditional casual dining like Buffalo Wild Wings offers more modest pay.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Thornton?
Several key factors affect how much a Cook can earn in Thornton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary techniques and specialization often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or larger catering companies usually offer better wages than casual eateries or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with shift differentials or bonuses.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications or food safety training can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Economic Conditions: The demand for skilled cooks amid Thornton's growing hospitality sector plays a strong role.
How To Become a Cook in Thornton
Starting a career as a Cook in Thornton involves a few important steps geared toward building skill and credibility:
- Culinary Education: Attending programs like those at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder, CO, can provide fundamental cooking techniques and culinary knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often necessary and valued by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or internships provide hands-on learning and professional growth opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Thornton
The following employers in Thornton frequently seek skilled Cooks:
- Topgolf
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
- Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard
Establishments That Cooks in Thornton Work At
Cooks often find work across a wide array of establishments. These include:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Generally offer steady hours and modest pay, suitable for entry-level Cooks.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: These provide opportunities for skill development but may pay less than fine dining.
- Fine Dining and Hotel Kitchens: Typically provide higher wages and opportunities for advancement due to skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Entertainment Venues and Specialized Eateries: Places like Topgolf pay competitively, reflecting the greater demands of venue and clientele.
The type of establishment strongly influences a Cook's salary, with upscale and specialized venues offering lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Cooks
If you are interested in career paths related to the Cook position, consider exploring these similar roles.
These positions include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Prep Cook, roles that involve related kitchen responsibilities and culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Thornton
Cooks in Thornton should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations both at the state and federal levels.
- Colorado’s official website at https://www.colorado.gov offers detailed information on state labor regulations, minimum wage, and workplace rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor’s site https://www.dol.gov provides federal guidelines on labor standards, including wage and hour rules.