Prep Cook Salary in Aurora, CO
Prep Cooks in Aurora, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.23 per hour, which translates to about $729.20 per week, $3,159.87 per month, and $37,918.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Aurora is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Aurora can vary depending on experience level and specific employer, but here is a general overview across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.79 | $631.60 | $2,731.47 | $32,779.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.23 | $729.20 | $3,159.87 | $37,918.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.04 | $841.60 | $3,637.87 | $43,683.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Aurora Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities are typically behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come solely from their wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Aurora vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.95 per hour, translating to about $35,256 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in Aurora earn a higher average hourly pay of $18.23 and annual wages of $37,918.40.
This difference can be attributed to local market demand, cost of living, and the food service industry's growth in Aurora.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Aurora: $19.50 per hour
- Southlands: $20.00 per hour
These higher wages in Downtown Aurora and Southlands reflect the area's demand and employer willingness to pay a premium for skilled Prep Cooks.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Aurora?
Several factors play a role in determining the salary of a Prep Cook in Aurora:
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Prep Cooks with specialized culinary skills or certifications tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catering services often pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend hours may attract shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with higher demand for food service workers may offer better compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary programs and food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Aurora
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Aurora involves several key steps to enhance employability and salary prospects:
- Complete Culinary Training: Attending schools like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in nearby Boulder or taking culinary arts courses at the Community College of Aurora can build essential skills.
- Gain Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the widely recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required by employers to ensure food safety knowledge.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation validates foundational culinary skills, improving job prospects.
- Acquire Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships provide hands-on experience essential to advancing in the culinary field.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Aurora
Several well-known companies in Aurora actively seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Compass Group
- Famous Dave's
- Benihana
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Aurora Work At
Prep Cooks in Aurora typically find employment across a diverse range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with stable shifts, good for gaining experience.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often entry points for Prep Cooks, pay may be lower but hours can be flexible.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These can offer higher wages due to the need for precision and quality.
- Catering Companies: May provide varied work and opportunities for specialty food preparation.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the salary, with upscale and catering venues frequently offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to the Prep Cook position, here are a few similar roles to consider:
These include positions such as Cook, Fry Cook, and Line Cook, which require similar culinary skills and offer varied career advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Aurora
Prep Cooks should stay informed about state and federal labor laws to ensure their rights and understand tax obligations.
- Official information about Colorado labor laws and employment regulations can be found on the Colorado government website.
- For federal labor law resources, including workplace standards and wage requirements, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.