Prep Cook Salary in Anchorage, AK
Prep Cooks in Anchorage, AK, in 2026, earn approximately $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $780.00 per week, $3,380.00 per month, and $40,560.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Anchorage is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the food preparation industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Anchorage varies based on experience and employer, providing a range of earnings from entry-level positions to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes during food preparation, with limited customer interaction. Their earnings mainly come from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $15.60 per hour, resulting in annual earnings near $32,448.00.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Anchorage earn significantly more, with an hourly wage of approximately $19.50 and annual earnings of $40,560.00.
This higher pay can be attributed to the elevated cost of living in Anchorage and the demand for culinary support staff in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, the hourly rates for Prep Cooks are as follows:
- Downtown Anchorage: $20.00 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $19.00 per hour
Downtown Anchorage offers a slightly higher wage for Prep Cooks compared to Midtown Anchorage, reflecting factors such as commercial density and restaurant types.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several key factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Anchorage:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks often earn higher wages due to greater efficiency and skill.
- Specific Culinary Skills: Knowledge of food safety practices and specialized preparation techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels typically offers higher wages than casual dining or fast-food settings.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional compensation.
- Local Demand and Living Costs: Anchorage's economic factors contribute to salary adjustments for competitiveness.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Anchorage
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Anchorage involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the University of Alaska Anchorage Culinary Arts Program or the Alaska Culinary Academy provide comprehensive hands-on education for aspiring Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Alaska Food Worker Card are essential and often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens, internships, or apprenticeships offer valuable on-the-job training.
- Develop Relevant Skills: Proficiency in knife handling, ingredient preparation, and kitchen safety improves job prospects and pay potential.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Anchorage
Several prominent Anchorage establishments currently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Simon & Seafort's
- Glacier Brewhouse
- The Crow's Nest
- Orso
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Anchorage Work At
Prep Cooks in Anchorage are commonly employed across different types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady work with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically offer entry-level wages but opportunities for rapid advancement.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Usually pay higher salaries due to elevated standards and skill requirements.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: May offer varying pay depending on event volume and complexity.
The establishment type greatly influences potential earnings and work environment for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Prep Cooks
If considering related roles within hospitality, these careers offer similar skill sets and potential salary paths:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which require related culinary abilities and have overlapping responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Anchorage
Prep Cooks in Anchorage should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for comprehensive federal rules.
- Consult the State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for Alaska-specific employment regulations.
- For local ordinances and resources, the Municipality of Anchorage official website provides guidance.