Prep Cook Salary in Lakewood, CO
Prep Cooks in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.09 per hour, which translates to about $763.60 per week, $3,308.93 per month, and $39,707.20 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Lakewood is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary support staff in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Lakewood can fluctuate based on experience, skill level, and type of employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings at various career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,488.53 | $29,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.29 | $731.60 | $3,157.47 | $37,991.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips, as their responsibilities focus on food preparation behind the scenes. Their income is mainly from their hourly wage without additional tip earnings.
Prep Cook Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $18.65 per hour, equating to roughly $38,792 annually.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Lakewood make slightly more on average, with hourly wages close to $19.09 and yearly salaries around $39,707. This above-average compensation reflects regional demand and cost-of-living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Prep Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods also offer competitive wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Lakewood: $22 per hour
- Belmar: $20 per hour
Working closer to Downtown Lakewood might command higher pay, although both locations provide opportunities with earnings above the citywide average.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Lakewood?
Several factors strongly influence the earnings of Prep Cooks in Lakewood:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced culinary techniques typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks employed in upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more than those working in casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications: Holding culinary certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance job prospects and pay.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts might come with additional pay opportunities.
- Local Economic Conditions: Lakewood's cost of living and demand for hospitality staff influence wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Lakewood
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Lakewood includes multiple practical steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Red Rocks Community College offer valuable apprenticeships combining hands-on experience and classroom instruction.
- Consider Accredited Culinary Schools: Options such as the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provide diplomas and associate degrees, which can be pursued on campus or online.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate sound knowledge of food safety and culinary basics.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles, internships, or apprenticeships provide vital on-the-job training to develop requisite skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Lakewood
Leading companies actively recruiting Prep Cooks in Lakewood include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Yard House
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Lakewood Work At
Prep Cooks commonly find employment in various settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work with moderate compensation.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Typically offering faster pace environments, sometimes with slightly lower pay.
- Full-Service Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher wages and benefits reflecting the upscale clientele.
- Catering Companies: These may have seasonal variations but offer opportunities for skill development.
The type of establishment significantly impacts wages, with higher-end venues usually paying more for skilled Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Prep Cooks
If you’re considering related careers close to the Prep Cook role, these may interest you:
These include Line Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook positions, all playing important roles within kitchen and food preparation operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Lakewood
Prep Cooks should be mindful of labor laws and tax regulations relevant to Colorado and federal standards to ensure compliance and proper work conditions.
- Information about Colorado state labor laws including wage standards and employment regulations is available at the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- Federal labor laws, workplace rights, and regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.