Sous Chef Salary in Fort Collins, CO
Sous Chefs in Fort Collins, CO in 2025 earn approximately $28.70 per hour, which equates to about $1,148.00 per week, $4,974.67 per month, and $59,696.00 per year.
The demand for Sous Chefs in Fort Collins is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy market with expanding opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Sous Chef Make in Fort Collins, CO?
The salary of a Sous Chef in Fort Collins can vary based on experience, skill, and employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.60 | $704.00 | $3,046.67 | $36,608.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.70 | $1,148.00 | $4,974.67 | $59,696.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.80 | $1,872.00 | $8,080.00 | $96,960.00 |
Do Sous Chefs in Fort Collins Earn Tips?
Sous Chefs generally do not earn tips as their work mainly takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen. Their compensation is typically salary or hourly wages without additional tipping income.
Sous Chef Salary in Fort Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Sous Chefs earn an average of around $28.70 per hour, which translates to about $59,696 per year.
In Fort Collins, Sous Chefs earn roughly the same as the national average, with an hourly wage of $28.70 and annual earnings near $59,696. This suggests Fort Collins offers competitive compensation for this position in line with nationwide standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Collins for Sous Chefs
Nearby areas show slightly higher wages for Sous Chefs:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- Midtown: $29.50 per hour
Sous Chefs working in Downtown Fort Collins can expect the highest pay in the area, followed closely by Midtown.
What Influences a Sous Chef’s Salary in Fort Collins?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sous Chef in Fort Collins:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Sous Chefs with well-developed culinary skills can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels often offers better compensation than casual or fast food venues.
- Certifications and Training: Professional culinary certifications and formal training can raise earning potential.
- Responsibility Level: The complexity of duties and kitchen size may affect salary, with larger kitchens often paying more.
- Local Market Demand: The demand for skilled culinary professionals fluctuates with the growth of the local food industry.
How To Become a Sous Chef in Fort Collins
Becoming a successful Sous Chef in Fort Collins involves several important steps:
- Gain Hands-On Culinary Experience: Enroll in practical cooking classes such as those offered by Farm Fusion in the Kitchen for control over various cuisines and techniques.
- Focus on Nutrition: Attend specialized courses like the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center Cooking Classes at Colorado State University to enhance knowledge about health-conscious cuisine.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Certification are crucial to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Consider Professional Accreditation: Achieving American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can significantly boost career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sous Chefs in Fort Collins
Several employers in Fort Collins frequently seek qualified Sous Chefs, including:
- Sage Hospitality
- EHS Recruiting Company
- The Elizabeth Hotel
Establishments That Sous Chefs in Fort Collins Work At
Sous Chefs typically work in a variety of culinary establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often offer the highest salaries due to the elevated skill level required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may provide stable employment and competitive pay.
- Casual Dining and Fast-Casual: Generally, these pay less but might offer more entry-level opportunities.
- Catering Companies: These may have variable pay depending on contract size and clientele.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the prestige, size, and style of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Collins for Sous Chefs
If you are interested in career paths related to being a Sous Chef, consider roles that share similar skills and responsibilities:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions, each requiring culinary expertise and leadership skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sous Chefs in Fort Collins
It is important for Sous Chefs to stay informed about local, state, and federal labor laws and tax obligations.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado state labor information is available on the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website.
- For city-specific regulations in Fort Collins, check the City of Fort Collins official website.