Line Cook Salary in Centennial, CO
Line Cooks in Centennial, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.39 per hour, which translates to about $815.60 per week, $3,534.27 per month, and $42,411.20 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Centennial is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled culinary professionals in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Centennial, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Centennial can vary based on experience, skill, and the type of establishment. Here’s an overview of pay at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,740.80 | $32,832.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.39 | $815.60 | $3,534.27 | $42,411.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.23 | $1,049.20 | $4,547.47 | $54,458.40 |
Do Line Cooks in Centennial, CO Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn significant tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen. However, in some establishments, they might receive small tip shares amounting to a few dollars per shift, but this amount varies widely.
Line Cook Salary in Centennial, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.04 per hour, which equals about $37,523.20 per year.
Compared to this, Line Cooks in Centennial earn higher than the national average, making approximately $20.39 per hour and $42,411.20 annually. This higher wage may reflect local living costs and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Centennial, CO for Line Cooks
Nearby areas where Line Cooks earn higher wages include:
- Lone Tree: $22.40 per hour
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
Line Cooks seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in Lone Tree or Denver, where the hospitality industry offers more competitive wages.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Centennial, CO?
Several factors play a role in determining a Line Cook’s salary:
- Experience Level and Skills: More experienced cooks with expertise in various cuisines or kitchen techniques typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-food establishments.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Overtime, weekend, and holiday shifts may include pay premiums.
- Geographic Location: Areas with higher living costs often correspond to higher wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Centennial, CO
Becoming a successful Line Cook begins with a combination of education and practical experience:
- Formal Culinary Training: Consider programs such as the Arapahoe Community College Culinary Arts Program or Cook Street School of Culinary Arts for hands-on, comprehensive training.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Entry-Level Experience: Starting as a prep cook or kitchen assistant to gain on-the-job skills and move upward.
- Professional Certification: Pursuing the Certified Culinarian (CC) certification by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate foundational knowledge and commitment.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Centennial, CO
Many well-established companies in Centennial are actively hiring Line Cooks, including:
- Morrison Living
- Eurest
- First Watch
Establishments That Line Cooks in Centennial, CO Work At
Line Cooks can find work in a variety of food service venues in Centennial:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but usually offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: These often have consistent schedules but lower pay scales.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require advanced skills and provide higher pay and tips.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Typically offer competitive pay and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential, with upscale venues generally rewarding greater culinary expertise with higher salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Centennial, CO for Line Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to that of a Line Cook, consider related positions that require similar skills and offer alternative opportunities.
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, all closely related to Line Cook in tasks and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Centennial, CO
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Line Cooks in Centennial to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for information on federal labor laws, wage standards, and workers’ rights.
- For state-specific labor regulations and tax information, visit the State of Colorado's official website.