Prep Cook in Thornton, CO
Prep Cooks in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.63 per hour, translating to about $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Thornton varies with experience and specific workplace settings, but here is a breakdown by different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.02 | $640.80 | $2,772.80 | $33,273.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.63 | $785.20 | $3,402.53 | $40,830.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,166.93 | $50,003.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Thornton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind-the-scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation usually comes entirely from their wages rather than tips.
Prep Cook Salary in Thornton, CO vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.09 per hour, which equates to roughly $33,467.20 annually.
In comparison, Thornton Prep Cooks make notably more, earning approximately $19.63 per hour and about $40,830.40 annually. This reflects both higher living costs and possible greater demand for culinary support roles in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Prep Cooks
Nearby regions offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Lone Tree: $22.43 per hour
- Denver: $21.21 per hour
Those willing to commute to Lone Tree or Denver could find higher wages, with Lone Tree offering the most competitive pay near Thornton.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Thornton?
Several factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Thornton:
- Experience and Skill Proficiency: More experienced Prep Cooks with sharp knife skills, knowledge in food safety, and speed typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels tend to pay better than fast food outlets or casual diners.
- Culinary Certifications: Having certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian (CC) can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might include extra pay.
- Local Market Demand: Higher demand for kitchen staff in Thornton’s growing food scene can push salaries upward.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Thornton, CO
Building a career as a Prep Cook in Thornton can be achieved by following a few practical steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Institutes like Emily Griffith Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provide invaluable training with a mix of practical and theoretical knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with food safety regulations and are often required for kitchen roles.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting with entry-level roles in kitchens or food service environments helps you build your skills and resume.
- Advance Through Additional Certifications: Earning certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can further validate your culinary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Thornton, CO
Several popular restaurant chains are frequently seeking Prep Cooks in the Thornton area, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Chili's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Thornton Work At
Prep Cooks in Thornton typically work in various types of food service establishments:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These tend to have more entry-level opportunities but usually offer moderate wages.
- Chain Restaurants: Restaurants like Olive Garden and Chili's often provide consistent schedules and benefits but wages vary.
- Higher-End Restaurants and Hotels: These usually offer higher salaries as they expect refined prep skills and faster pace.
- Catering and Event Companies: Prep Cooks here may earn differently based on contract events and scale.
Differences in scale, prestige, and clientele directly influence salary ranges within these establishments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton, CO for Prep Cooks
If exploring roles related to Prep Cook interests you, there are several similar positions that might be suitable.
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie — roles that share some kitchen responsibilities and culinary skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Thornton, CO
Prep Cooks should stay informed about both state and federal labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure their rights and payroll are managed properly.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for information about state-specific labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website provides resources on federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace rights.