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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Olive and Finch

Production Cook Olive and Finch

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

... entry-level cook position responsible for learning and executing the fundamentals of kitchen operations. In addition to performing all BOH Crew duties, this role supports prep and production by ...

Olive and Finch

Production Cook Olive and Finch

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

... entry-level cook position responsible for learning and executing the fundamentals of kitchen operations. In addition to performing all BOH Crew duties, this role supports prep and production by ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Centennial, CO

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Castle Rock, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Centennial, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Castle Rock, CO

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Castle Rock, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Thornton, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Centennial, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Weekend Availability

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Highlands Ranch, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Weekend Availability

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Highlands Ranch, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Parker, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Restaurant Image

Aurora, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Weekend Availability

Fort Collins, CO

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Weekend Availability

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Weekend Availability

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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All JobsPrep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Colorado

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do entry level prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Colorado is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level prep cook?

Entry level prep cooks are kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring that all food items are ready for use. Prep cooks are essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in restaurants and other food establishments, especially during busy periods. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a culinary career, as it provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level prep cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a willingness to follow recipes and food safety standards, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper food handling procedures, and sometimes a food handler's certification are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety, and support smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Prep Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level Prep CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsSimilar; may require more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, assisting with ingredient preparationCooking stations, actively preparing dishes during service
Employer UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMore experienced role, often with specific station responsibilities

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Prep Cook primarily focuses on preparing ingredients and assisting with basic tasks, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and manages specific stations during service. The prep cook position is ideal for those starting in the culinary industry, with opportunities to advance to a line cook role with experience.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level prep cooks often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy meal periods, maintaining consistency in food preparation, and adapting quickly to the fast-paced kitchen environment. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow recipes and instructions closely. Developing good knife skills and a strong sense of teamwork will also help new prep cooks work more efficiently and confidently as they gain experience.

How to become an entry level prep cook with no experience?

To become an entry level prep cook with no experience, focus on developing basic cooking skills, understanding food safety practices, and demonstrating reliability. Many employers provide on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are valuable. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:

Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,309 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Production Cook Olive and Finch

Olive and Finch

Denver, CO • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description Production CookJob Title: Cook 1Reports to: Kitchen ManagerEmployment Type: Full-Time / Non-ExemptAbout Olive & Finch CollectiveOlive & Finch Collective is a Denver-based hospitality group committed to fresh, chef-driven meals, exceptional guest experiences, and a people-first culture. Since opening in 2013, our growing portfolio now includes restaurants, neighborhood cafés, a full-service bakeshop, a robust catering and events division, retail and grab-and-go operations, and multiple locations at Denver International Airport. At Olive & Finch, we believe in inclusive leadership, sustainable growth, and nourishing both our guests and our teams.Position Summary The production cook is an entry-level cook position responsible for learning and executing the fundamentals of kitchen operations. In addition to performing all BOH Crew duties, this role supports prep and production by following recipes and build guides with accuracy. Production cooks are focused on building consistency, mastering the basics, and supporting the overall success of the kitchen.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform all BOH Crew duties, including dishwashing, food prep, and overall restaurant cleanliness. Execute menu items as trained, following recipes and build guides. Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout shifts.Follow all food safety, health, and sanitation standards.Communicate effectively with BOH teammates to ensure smooth production.QualificationsPrevious prep cook or kitchen experience strongly preferred.Solid understanding of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety practices.Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and lift up to 50 lbs.Availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.Competencies / Core ValuesQuality- and detail-oriented.Dependable, efficient, and organized.Strong team player and communicator.Positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow.Reporting StructureReports to the Kitchen Manager. This position does not have direct reports.Work Environment & Physical RequirementsThis is a hands-on, kitchen-based position requiring extended periods of standing, bending, lifting, and moving quickly in a fast-paced environment. Exposure to heat, cold, and cleaning chemicals is common. Shifts may include mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.Compensation & BenefitsHourly pay + benefitsMeal discounts, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for advancement.EEO & At-Will StatementOlive & Finch Collective is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with Olive & Finch is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate employment at any time, with or without notice or cause. This job description is not an employment contract and may be updated as business needs evolve.