Line Cook Salary in Loveland, CO
Line Cooks in Loveland, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which translates to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Loveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for culinary professionals seeking opportunities in this area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Loveland, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Loveland varies according to experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.48 | $619.20 | $2,686.40 | $32,198.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,042.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.91 | $796.40 | $3,441.47 | $41,393.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Loveland Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly done in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their compensation mostly relies on hourly wages or salaries rather than gratuities.
Line Cook Salary in Loveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of about $17.55 per hour, amounting to approximately $36,504.00 per year.
Line Cooks in Loveland earn roughly the same as the national average, reflecting the region's moderate cost of living and steady culinary job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Loveland for Line Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Line Cooks:
- Downtown Loveland: $18.50 per hour
- Centerra: $19.00 per hour
Centerra provides the highest pay, ideal for those willing to commute or work in that district.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Loveland?
Several factors can influence how much a Line Cook earns in Loveland:
- Experience and Skills: More seasoned Line Cooks with knife skills, speed, and knowledge of various cuisines command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with higher wages or shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can increase earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Loveland’s growing culinary market supports competitive wages relative to local expenses.
How To Become a Line Cook in Loveland
Interested in pursuing a career as a Line Cook in Loveland? Consider these steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder, offering diplomas and associate degrees.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required for Line Cooks.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or as apprentices to build your cooking and kitchen management skills.
- Network and Apply: Connect with local restaurant professionals and apply to openings in restaurants, hotels, and catering companies.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Loveland
Several prominent local employers actively seek skilled Line Cooks, including:
- Chili's
- Door 222 Food and Drink
- Giordano's
Establishments That Line Cooks in Loveland Work At
Line Cooks typically find employment in various culinary settings, each offering different salary levels:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady employment with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Often have faster-paced kitchens with slightly lower salaries but more entry-level opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide competitive wages and potential benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Pay higher salaries but demand more skill and experience.
The type of establishment affects not only wages but also work environment and advancement possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Loveland for Line Cooks
If you are exploring careers similar to Line Cook, you might consider the following related positions that share culinary and kitchen responsibilities.
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, offering pathways to advance culinary careers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Loveland
Line Cooks in Loveland should be informed about local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- On the Official State of Colorado website you can find detailed information on labor laws, minimum wage, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor standards and workplace rules, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.