Line Cook Salary in Fort-Collins, CO
Line Cooks in Fort-Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.66 per hour, which translates to about $746.40 per week, $3,234.40 per month, and $38,812.80 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Fort-Collins is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities for employment in the culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Fort-Collins, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Fort-Collins can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Line Cooks in Fort-Collins Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips because they work primarily in the kitchen and have limited direct interaction with customers. Their income is mainly based on their hourly wage.
Line Cook Salary in Fort-Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $18.66 per hour, which converts to approximately $38,812.80 annually.
Line Cooks in Fort-Collins earn roughly in line with the national average, with the median hourly rate matching the average national hourly wage.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort-Collins for Line Cooks
When looking at areas close to Fort-Collins, some neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Old Town: $20.00 per hour
- Midtown: $19.00 per hour
Line Cooks working in Old Town can expect the highest pay among nearby locations, while those in Midtown also earn above the city’s average.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Fort-Collins?
Several key factors determine how much a Line Cook earns in Fort-Collins:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with refined culinary skills or specialized knowledge tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or establishments with upscale menus tend to pay more compared to fast food or casual dining facilities.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing food safety certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or credentials like Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can boost salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening, night, or holiday shifts may offer differential pay increasing overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: The growing culinary scene in Fort-Collins and shifts in employment demand affect wages competitively.
How To Become a Line Cook in Fort-Collins
Starting a career as a Line Cook in Fort-Collins involves several steps to build requisite skills and credentials.
Gain Culinary Training: Participating in hands-on cooking classes such as those at Farm Fusion in the Kitchen or nutrition-focused workshops like Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center Cooking Classes at Colorado State University can provide valuable skills.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often a prerequisite to work in kitchens, demonstrating knowledge of sanitary practices.
Earn Culinary Certification: Certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) validate culinary skills and enhance employment prospects.
Get Practical Experience: Starting as kitchen assistants or apprentices helps to gain real-world experience crucial for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Fort-Collins
Several restaurants and chains actively look to hire Line Cooks in Fort-Collins, including:
- Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
- Urban Egg
- First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Line Cooks in Fort-Collins Work At
Line Cooks in Fort-Collins typically find employment across a range of foodservice establishments:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These offer steady employment, with wages generally at or slightly below average.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end eateries tend to pay more and look for cooking precision and advanced skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: These sometimes offer more competitive salaries and additional benefits.
- Catering Companies: Often provide varied culinary experiences that can impact wages based on event scale and location.
The type of establishment can greatly influence a Line Cook’s wages, with upscale restaurants generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort-Collins for Line Cooks
Line Cooks interested in related roles within the hospitality industry can explore several similar career paths:
Careers such as Prep Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef offer paths for advancement or lateral movement in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Fort-Collins
Line Cooks should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their obligations.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment rules and resources are available at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
- Local ordinances and workforce supports can be accessed through the City of Fort Collins official site.