Line Cook Salary in Aurora, CO
Line Cooks in Aurora, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.48 per hour, which translates to about $739.20 per week, $3,203.20 per month, and $38,438.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Aurora is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Aurora varies depending on experience levels and employers. Below is an overview of earnings across experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.94 | $557.60 | $2,414.93 | $28,995.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.48 | $739.20 | $3,203.20 | $38,438.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.49 | $979.60 | $4,234.37 | $50,939.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Aurora Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work occurs primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than customer-facing roles. Their income mostly comes from their salary or hourly wages.
Line Cook Salary in Aurora vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.48 per hour, which translates to about $38,438.40 per year.
The salary for Line Cooks in Aurora closely aligns with the national average, making it a competitive market with stable wages reflecting regional cost of living and industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Area 1: $20.50 per hour
- Area 2: $24.50 per hour
Line Cooks willing to commute or relocate to these nearby areas may find significantly higher wages compared to Aurora itself.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Aurora?
Several factors can substantially influence the earnings of a Line Cook in Aurora:
- Experience: More experienced Line Cooks tend to command higher wages due to their efficiency and skill mastery.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in specific cuisines or cooking techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers higher salaries compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working night shifts or weekends might provide additional pay incentives.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary credentials can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Line Cook in Aurora
To begin a career as a Line Cook in Aurora, consider the following steps:
- Complete culinary training: Programs like the Community College of Aurora Culinary Arts Program or the Emily Griffith Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational skills and hands-on experience.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Attaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and demonstrates knowledge of proper food handling practices.
- Consider Professional Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation is an excellent way to validate your culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or as prep cooks helps build essential skills and advance to line cook positions.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Aurora
Several establishments in Aurora regularly recruit Line Cooks:
- P.F. Chang's
- Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Aurora Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in various foodservice environments, including:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often require quick preparation and multitasking; pay is generally moderate.
- Casual Dining: These establishments may offer higher wages than fast casual due to volume and complexity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer better compensation and benefits, reflecting the skill and experience required.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay higher and expect superior culinary skills and professionalism.
The type of establishment often influences the salary range and career growth potential for Line Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora for Line Cooks
If you’re exploring similar career paths related to being a Line Cook, consider these roles which share related skills and job functions:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie, which involve culinary skills closely aligned with those of a Line Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Aurora
Line Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their employment.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for detailed information about state labor laws, wage regulations, and workers' rights.
- Access local employment resources and business regulations on the City of Aurora's official website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive federal labor laws and guidelines.