Line Cook Salary in Thornton, CO
Line Cooks in Thornton, CO in 2025 earn about $19.63 per hour, which translates to approximately $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Line Cooks in Thornton is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for culinary professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Line Cook Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Line Cook in Thornton can vary based on experience and employer, but below is a general overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.02 | $640.80 | $2,774.80 | $33,297.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,402.53 | $40,830.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,162.93 | $49,963.20 |
Do Line Cooks in Thornton Earn Tips?
Line Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes in kitchen preparation. Their earnings usually come from salary or hourly wages rather than tips.
Line Cook Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Line Cooks earn an average of around $16.02 per hour, amounting to approximately $33,321.60 per year.
Line Cooks in Thornton earn noticeably more than the national average, at about $19.63 per hour and $40,830.40 annually. This difference reflects the local market conditions and cost of living in Colorado.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Line Cooks
Nearby areas to Thornton offer varying salaries for Line Cooks:
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
- Englewood: $21.11 per hour
Line Cooks commuting to Denver or Englewood can expect to earn a somewhat higher wage compared to those working in Thornton directly.
What Influences a Line Cook’s Salary in Thornton?
Several factors can impact how much a Line Cook earns in Thornton, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Line Cooks with advanced culinary skills or specialized knowledge often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies usually offer more competitive salaries compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Night shifts, weekends, and overtime can result in increased wages or bonuses.
- Certifications: Possessing food safety certifications or culinary diplomas may enhance salary potential.
- Local Cost of Living: Thornton's local economy and living costs influence pay scales in the food service industry.
How To Become a Line Cook in Thornton
To pursue a career as a Line Cook in Thornton, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in a culinary arts program such as those offered at Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver or the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, CO, which provide hands-on cooking training and foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and demonstrate competency in safe food handling practices.
- Earn Culinary Credentialing: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation validates fundamental culinary skills, enhancing employment prospects.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships help build practical skills and workplace familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Line Cooks in Thornton
Several well-known restaurants and chains actively hire Line Cooks in Thornton, including:
- Topgolf
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
- Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard
Establishments That Line Cooks in Thornton Work At
Line Cooks in Thornton typically work in a range of establishments:
- Causal Dining Restaurants: These establishments generally offer steady employment with moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often have high customer turnover and fast-paced kitchens with competitive wages.
- Full-Service Restaurants & Hotels: These often provide higher salaries, especially if the venue is upscale or part of a luxury hotel.
- Catering Companies: Line Cooks in catering can experience variability in pay, with opportunities for bonuses during peak seasons.
The type of establishment can significantly influence earnings, as more prestigious or busy kitchens may offer better compensation and growth potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Line Cooks
For those interested in related careers within the hospitality and culinary sector, here are several options worth considering:
These include Chef de Partie, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook, all of which share similar skill sets and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Line Cooks in Thornton
Line Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Colorado's official website provides resources on state-specific labor laws and protections.
- Local employment resources and ordinance details are available through the City of Thornton's official website.