Line Cook Salary in Pueblo, CO
Line Cooks in Pueblo, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.80 per hour, which translates to about $672.00 per week, $2,912.00 per month, and $34,944.00 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Pueblo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Pueblo, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Pueblo varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,556.27 | $30,675.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.80 | $672.00 | $2,912.00 | $34,944.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.54 | $781.60 | $3,383.07 | $40,603.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Pueblo, CO Earn Tips?
Line Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their income usually consists of their hourly wage only.
Line Cook Salary in Pueblo, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, translating to about $34,944 per year.
When compared to the national average, Line Cooks in Pueblo earn roughly the same, at about $16.80 per hour and $34,944 annually.
This alignment reflects the local cost of living and the general demand for culinary professionals within Pueblo.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pueblo for Line Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Line Cook salaries can vary slightly:
- Downtown Pueblo: $18.90 per hour
- North Pueblo: $17.89 per hour
Among these, Downtown Pueblo offers the highest average hourly pay for Line Cooks, reflecting its busier dining scene and possibly more upscale restaurant options.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Pueblo?
Several factors affect how much a Line Cook can earn in Pueblo:
- Experience and Skill Level: With more experience and culinary skills, Line Cooks can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often leads to better wages than casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes include shift differentials.
- Culinary Certifications: Additional training or certifications may improve earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Salaries adjust according to Pueblo’s economic conditions and demand in the hospitality industry.
How To Become a Line Cook in Pueblo
Becoming a successful Line Cook in Pueblo involves several key steps and educational opportunities:
- Enroll in culinary programs: The Pueblo Community College Culinary Arts Program provides practical training and theoretical knowledge essential for a culinary career.
- Obtain food safety certification: Programs like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification equip aspiring cooks with crucial food safety practices.
- Gain hands-on experience: Starting as a kitchen helper or apprentice helps develop foundational cooking skills.
- Network with local chefs and hospitality professionals: Building connections may lead to job openings and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Pueblo
Pueblo's restaurant scene offers opportunities with several key employers, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Mr Tandoori
Establishments That Line Cooks in Pueblo Work At
Line Cooks in Pueblo are typically employed at a variety of establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants: These offer steady work with moderate pay, often with regular hours.
- Fast casual establishments: These venues usually provide a fast-paced environment with competitive wages.
- Fine dining restaurants and hotels: These places may offer higher salaries due to the elevated skill level and complexity of dishes prepared.
- Catering companies and event venues: Working here can offer diverse experiences but may involve variable hours and pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences the Line Cook's salary, with fine dining venues generally providing the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pueblo for Line Cooks
For those interested in exploring similar roles within hospitality, here are some related careers worth considering:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Kitchen Manager roles, which share responsibilities and skills related to food preparation and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Pueblo
Line Cooks should be well-informed about the labor laws and tax obligations affecting their employment.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Colorado Department of Labor and Employment provides state-specific information at cdle.colorado.gov.
- The City of Pueblo official website offers resources relevant to local employment regulations and resources.