Prep Cook Salary in Greeley, CO
Prep Cooks in Greeley, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $14.42 per hour, which translates to about $576.80 per week, $2,499.47 per month, and $29,993.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Greeley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in food preparation roles within the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Greeley, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Greeley varies depending on experience, but here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,499.47 | $29,993.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,499.47 | $29,993.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Greeley Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes in the kitchen, preparing ingredients rather than serving customers directly. Their earnings come primarily from their hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Greeley vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $18.65 per hour, which translates to about $38,792 annually.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Greeley command a lower hourly wage at $14.42 per hour and a yearly salary of $29,993.60.
This variance can be attributed to differences in local living costs and regional demand for culinary preparation staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greeley for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- City Center: $14.42 per hour
- 28th St - 35th Ave: $14.42 per hour
Pay in these neighborhoods aligns closely with Greeley’s average, providing consistent earning opportunities nearby.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Greeley?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Greeley:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who master complex food preparation techniques can often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers better salaries than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts might come with additional compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Holding food safety certifications or completing culinary courses can improve job prospects and wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Greeley
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Greeley can be accessed by following some clear steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as those offered by Aims Community College Culinary Arts Program or Front Range Community College Culinary Arts Program to learn fundamental cooking and kitchen skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential credentials that teach proper sanitation and safety.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: Consider obtaining credentials such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) to enhance your culinary knowledge.
- Build Experience: Work in kitchens as kitchen assistants or line cooks to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Greeley
The following are some of the prominent employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in the Greeley area:
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Greeley Work At
Prep Cooks in Greeley commonly work in a variety of food service establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide consistent work and pay that aligns with regional averages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may offer a faster-paced environment with slightly varied wages depending on the brand.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end hotels often pay more and may provide additional benefits.
- Catering and Event Venues: Some Prep Cooks find opportunities in catering, often with seasonal fluctuations in workload and pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment can substantially influence salary and career growth possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greeley for Prep Cooks
Those interested in roles similar to Prep Cook may consider career options such as:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all related to kitchen and food preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Greeley
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and compliance with regulations in Colorado.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- For federal guidelines and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor’s official website provides detailed information.