Prep Cook Salary in Abilene, TX
Prep Cooks in Abilene, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.63 per hour, which translates to about $545.20 per week, $2,362.53 per month, and $28,350.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Abilene is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a healthy expansion of food service opportunities in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Abilene, TX?
Salary for Prep Cooks in Abilene varies by experience, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings across entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.87 | $434.80 | $1,882.67 | $22,570.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.63 | $545.20 | $2,362.53 | $28,350.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.11 | $684.40 | $2,944.93 | $35,588.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Abilene Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is mostly behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations. Their earnings largely depend on wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Abilene, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16 per hour, which equates to about $33,280 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Abilene earn $13.63 hourly, and around $28,350 annually, which is slightly below the national average. This difference may reflect variations in living costs and economic factors in the Abilene area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Abilene for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas in Abilene, Prep Cook salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Abilene: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks working in South Abilene tend to earn more than those in Downtown, making it a lucrative option for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Abilene?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Abilene:
- Experience: More seasoned Prep Cooks earn higher wages due to improved skills and efficiency.
- Skills: Expertise in food preparation techniques, knife skills, and kitchen safety can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels may offer higher salaries compared to fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Location: Certain neighborhoods or districts within Abilene may pay better due to demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Abilene
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in Abilene involves several steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Texas State Technical College offer comprehensive training in essential culinary skills.
- Learn Hospitality Management: Courses such as the Hospitality Management Program at Abilene Christian University provide broader knowledge of the food service industry.
- Obtain Certifications: Required certifications include the Food Handler Certification, ensuring safe food handling practices, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification, focusing on food safety and sanitation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or internships help build hands-on skills important for prep cooking.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Abilene
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Abilene include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Abilene Work At
Prep Cooks in Abilene typically work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These often offer entry-level positions with steady schedules but generally lower pay.
- Casual Dining: Mid-range restaurants provide opportunities for career growth and slightly better wages.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These establishments tend to pay higher wages and require more diverse culinary skills.
- Specialty or Fine Dining: Positions here may reward specialized food preparation skills with the highest salaries.
The type of establishment influences salary levels according to the complexity of food preparation and the clientele's expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Abilene for Prep Cooks
Those interested in roles similar to Prep Cook might consider the following related hospitality jobs, which have overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Line Cook, Food Runner, and Dishwasher positions, each offering distinct roles within kitchen and dining operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Abilene
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific workforce and employment information, visit the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- Local government labor resources for Abilene are available at the Abilene official city website.