Prep Cook Salary in Denver, CO
Prep Cooks in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.70 per hour, which translates to about $828.00 per week, $3,588.00 per month, and $43,056.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Denver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding opportunity for individuals seeking entry-level culinary roles in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Denver varies by experience level and employer. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.81 | $752.40 | $3,260.80 | $39,129.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.70 | $828.00 | $3,588.00 | $43,056.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.53 | $1,021.20 | $4,408.40 | $52,982.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Denver Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen preparation work rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are primarily based on hourly wages or salary without additional tip income.
Prep Cook Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks average approximately $16.83 per hour and $35,006.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Denver earn more, with an average of $20.70 per hour and $43,056 annually. This difference reflects Denver's cost of living and demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Prep Cooks
Nearby locations offer competitive wages for Prep Cooks:
- Boulder: $20.00 per hour
- Lakewood: $19.09 per hour
Boulder offers slightly higher pay compared to Lakewood, but Denver remains central for opportunities and salary.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Denver?
Several factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Denver, including:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks are often rewarded with higher wages as they increase efficiency and skill.
- Skillset: Proficiency in food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Having recognized food safety certifications can positively impact salary.
- Shift Hours: Those willing to work evenings, weekends, or holidays might earn shift differentials that increase total pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Denver
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Denver, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Emily Griffith Technical College provide hands-on training preparing students for roles like Prep Cook.
- Earn Certificates: The Professional Cook Certificate at Metropolitan State University of Denver offers comprehensive culinary education focused on practical skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required in food service jobs.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level kitchen work or internships can build essential skills and open doors.
- Consider Certifications: Programs such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate professionalism and improve prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Denver
Denver hosts several prominent restaurant chains and establishments hiring Prep Cooks, including:
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Denver Work At
Prep Cooks can be employed in a range of settings, such as:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants offer consistent hours and steady pay, but wages may be moderate.
- Fast Casual: A faster-paced environment with competitive pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end establishments tend to pay more due to the complexity and precision required in food preparation.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide more benefits and higher salaries than smaller venues.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary level, with fine dining and hotels typically offering the highest earning potential for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Prep Cooks
Those interested in related roles similar to Prep Cook might explore the following positions:
These positions include Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef, which share similar culinary skill sets and offer varied career paths in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Denver
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations at both the state and local level.
- Information on Colorado state regulations is available through the official state government website.
- Local regulations and resources can be found on the City and County of Denver website.
- For federal labor laws and employee rights, the U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources.