Line Cook Salary in Colorado Springs, CO
Line Cooks in Colorado Springs, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $18.17 per hour, which translates to about $726.80 per week, $3,149.47 per month, and $37,793.60 per year.
This position is experiencing a positive employment growth rate of 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled Line Cooks in the Colorado Springs area and the culinary industry overall.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Colorado Springs, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Colorado Springs varies depending on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of average wages based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.26 | $610.40 | $2,639.47 | $31,725.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.17 | $726.80 | $3,149.47 | $37,793.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.64 | $865.60 | $3,749.33 | $44,931.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Colorado Springs Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities are primarily focused on food preparation in the kitchen rather than customer service. Their income typically comes from their hourly wages or salary.
Line Cook Salary in Colorado Springs vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $18.17 per hour, or $37,793.60 annually.
The average pay for Line Cooks in Colorado Springs aligns closely with the national average, reflecting industry standards and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Colorado Springs for Line Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods show some variation in wages for Line Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.17 per hour
- Northgate: $17.62 per hour
Those working in Downtown Colorado Springs can expect slightly higher wages compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Colorado Springs?
Several factors can influence a Line Cook’s salary in Colorado Springs:
- Experience: More years working in kitchens usually lead to higher pay.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in specific cuisines or faster, efficient cooking can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or fine dining restaurants often pay more compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, night, or holiday shifts can come with additional pay.
- Location: Working in busier or high-demand areas like Downtown may help increase wages.
How To Become a Line Cook in Colorado Springs
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Colorado Springs can be achievable through these steps:
- Gain Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as ProStart Level 1 & 2 offered by Colorado Springs School District 11 or the Culinary Arts AAS Degree at Colorado Mountain College, which provide strong foundational and practical kitchen experience.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and ProStart National Certificate of Achievement demonstrate your knowledge in food safety and culinary skills, often required by employers.
- Develop Practical Experience: Starting as a prep cook, kitchen assistant, or in entry-level kitchen roles can provide the necessary experience.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Colorado Springs
Several popular establishments in Colorado Springs hire Line Cooks, including:
- The Rabbit Hole
- Shuga's
- Four by Brother Luck
Establishments That Line Cooks in Colorado Springs Work At
Line Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments that include:
- Casual Diners: These offer consistent shifts but typically moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Work in these environments can be fast-paced, with pay often competitive but varying.
- Fine Dining: Kitchens in high-end restaurants usually offer higher salaries due to skill demands and work complexity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Opportunities also exist here, with potential for benefits and advancement.
The type of establishment can affect wages considerably, with fine dining and resorts generally paying higher than casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Colorado Springs for Line Cooks
If you are considering other roles related to being a Line Cook, the following careers share similar skills and may be of interest:
These include Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Manager roles which expand responsibilities but involve related culinary expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Colorado Springs
Line Cooks should keep informed about labor laws and taxes affecting their employment:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for comprehensive information about state labor laws and employment regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official site offers resources on federal labor laws, workplace standards, and employee rights.