Head Chef Salary in Lakewood, CO
Head Chefs in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $36.78 per hour, which amounts to about $1,471.20 per week, $6,375.20 per month, and $76,502.40 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for skilled culinary leadership in the area's food service industry.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Head Chef in Lakewood varies depending on experience and skill level, but here is an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $31.25 | $1,250.00 | $5,416.67 | $65,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $36.78 | $1,471.20 | $6,375.20 | $76,502.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.75 | $1,750.00 | $7,583.33 | $91,000.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Head Chefs generally do not earn tips, as their role focuses on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily salary-based.
Head Chef Salary in Lakewood, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn on average around $28.32 per hour, equating to about $58,905.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Lakewood earn significantly more at approximately $36.78 per hour and $76,502.40 annually. This reflects the competitive culinary market and living costs in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Head Chefs include:
- Belmar: $38.50 per hour
- Green Mountain: $37.25 per hour
Those willing to commute to Belmar or Green Mountain may find better salary opportunities compared to Lakewood.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Lakewood?
Multiple factors affect how much a Head Chef can earn in Lakewood:
- Experience: Extensive culinary and managerial experience typically results in higher pay.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines, menu development, and leadership can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and country clubs often pay more than casual dining spots.
- Size of Kitchen Team: Managing larger teams or multiple kitchens can command greater salaries.
- Education and Certifications: Holding culinary degrees or certifications can enhance credibility and salary potential.
How To Become a Head Chef in Lakewood
To pursue a career as a Head Chef in Lakewood, consider the following steps:
- Culinary Arts Program at Red Rocks Community College: Located in Lakewood, this program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree combined with a 6,000-hour apprenticeship for practical experience.
- Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts: Nearby in Boulder, CO, this school offers culinary arts and pastry programs focusing on classical and modern techniques.
- ServSafe Certification: Essential for knowledge of food safety and handling, this certification is a must-have for culinary professionals.
- Certified Executive Chef (CEC): Offered by the American Culinary Federation, this credential recognizes chefs with high culinary and managerial competence.
- Gain Experience: Start as a line cook or sous chef to develop skills before advancing to Head Chef.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Lakewood
Some prominent employers in Lakewood seeking skilled Head Chefs include:
- Ted's Montana Grill
- Red Robin
- Lakewood Country Club
- P.F. Chang's
- Casa Bonita Denver
Establishments That Head Chefs in Lakewood Work At
Head Chefs find opportunities across various dining establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to complexity and prestige.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: Often provide competitive pay and benefits for experienced Head Chefs.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These may offer lower wages but can provide valuable experience and steady employment.
- Catering Companies: Specialized chefs here might see wage variability depending on event scale.
Each type of establishment affects salary scale differently, with fine dining and exclusive clubs often leading the market.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Head Chef
If you're interested in careers related to Head Chef positions, consider these options:
This includes Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Restaurant Manager roles that involve culinary leadership and operational responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Head Chefs in Lakewood
Head Chefs in Lakewood should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and taxation to ensure compliance and maximize benefits.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for state labor regulations and resources.
- Check the Official website of the City and County of Denver for local employment laws and business licenses.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers federal labor standards and workplace protections information.