Prep Cook Salary in Boulder, CO
Prep Cooks in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.54 per hour, which translates to about $741.60 per week, $3,213.60 per month, and $38,563.20 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in Boulder is growing positively at around 5% per year, signaling a steady increase in opportunities and a robust market for culinary support roles within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Boulder varies with experience, skills, and employer. Below is a breakdown of the salary at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.26 | $610.40 | $2,639.47 | $31,725.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.54 | $741.60 | $3,213.60 | $38,563.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.51 | $900.40 | $3,900.87 | $46,820.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Boulder, CO Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than front-of-house customer service. Their compensation is primarily based on salary or hourly wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Boulder, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.50 per hour and approximately $34,320 per year.
Prep Cooks in Boulder earn a higher wage compared to the national average, with about $18.54 per hour and $38,563.20 annually. This difference reflects local economic conditions and the cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas pay slightly different wages for Prep Cooks:
- University Hill: $19.50 per hour
- West Pearl: $20.00 per hour
Those working in West Pearl and University Hill may earn more compared to central Boulder, driven by the types of establishments and local demand.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors impact how much a Prep Cook can earn in Boulder:
- Experience and Skill Level: Operators with more time in the kitchen or specialized culinary skills tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can increase job prospects and salary potential.
- Work Schedule: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might be compensated with premium pay rates.
- Local Cost of Living: Boulder’s higher living costs contribute to better wages compared to some other cities.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Boulder
To begin a career as a Prep Cook in Boulder, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provide practical skills in kitchen management and culinary techniques.
- Obtain Certificates: The Professional Cook Certificate at Front Range Community College offers foundational cooking skills and kitchen operations knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with health and safety standards, often required by employers.
- Consider Culinary Federation Certifications: Becoming a Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate professionalism and expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Boulder
Some of the key restaurants and dining establishments hiring Prep Cooks in Boulder include:
- Brasserie Ten Ten
- My Neighbor Felix
- Chautauqua Dining Hall
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Boulder Work At
Prep Cooks often find work in a variety of foodservice environments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These typically offer steady employment with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often high-volume with consistent hours, but usually lower pay compared to more upscale venues.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These settings tend to pay higher due to the complexity and skill requirements involved.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Pay can vary based on events and seasonal demand but may include opportunities for overtime.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Prep Cook’s salary, with upscale venues generally offering higher wages to attract skilled workers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Prep Cooks
If you are looking to explore roles related to Prep Cook, there are several similar careers worth considering that build upon culinary skills and kitchen experience.
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie, all of which involve progressing levels of culinary expertise and responsibility in professional kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Boulder
Prep Cooks should be informed about the relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Boulder.
- For state-specific labor laws and regulations, visit the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- Local employment laws and community employment resources can be found at the Official website of Boulder County.