Fast Food Worker Salary in Boulder, CO
Fast Food Workers in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.19 per hour, which translates to about $647.60 per week, $2,806.27 per month, and $33,675.20 per year.
The job demand for Fast Food Workers in Boulder is looking upwards with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Boulder varies depending on experience, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.61 | $584.40 | $2,529.20 | $30,350.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.27 | $650.80 | $2,803.73 | $33,629.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.13 | $725.20 | $3,123.87 | $37,711.20 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Boulder Earn Tips?
Typically, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips as their roles mostly involve order preparation, cashiering, or food service with minimal direct tipping customer interaction.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $13.25 per hour, translating to about $27,560 per year.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in Boulder make considerably more, earning about $16.19 per hour or $33,675.20 annually, reflecting local wage standards and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for this role:
- University Hill: $17.50 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $17.00 per hour
Fast Food Workers in University Hill receive the highest hourly wages among these nearby areas.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors impact the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Boulder:
- Experience and Skill Level: Workers with more experience and greater efficiency often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food restaurants with high volume or branded chains may pay better compared to smaller or independent outlets.
- Shift Timings: Night shifts or weekend work sometimes come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Living costs and local demand for food service staff affect wage levels citywide.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Boulder
Getting started as a Fast Food Worker in Boulder involves several steps:
- Acquire Basic Food Service Skills: Enroll in culinary or food service training such as the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, which covers foundational kitchen and service skills.
- Consider Management Training: For those interested in supervisory roles, the Food Service Management Program at Front Range Community College offers valuable education.
- Obtain Necessary Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) boost employability and are often required.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Boulder
Many well-known fast food chains frequently seek Fast Food Workers in Boulder, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Burger King
- KFC
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Boulder Work At
Fast Food Workers typically find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: The most common place of employment, often offering steady but standardized wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These may pay slightly higher wages than traditional fast food outlets and provide more varied roles.
- Cafes and Food Trucks: Smaller establishments might offer flexible schedules but generally lower pay.
The type of establishment influences both the pay scale and the pace of work expected from Fast Food Workers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering careers related to being a Fast Food Worker, here are some similar roles worth exploring:
These include the Cashier, Fry Cook, and Cook roles, all relevant within fast food and casual dining industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Boulder
Fast Food Workers should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with local requirements.
- Official website of the State of Colorado provides comprehensive information on labor laws and employment regulations.
- Official website of Boulder County offers resources on local employment and business rules that affect workers.
- U.S. Department of Labor is a federal resource for understanding nationwide labor laws and wage standards.