Prep Cook Salary in Arlington, VA
Prep Cooks in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.26 per hour, which translates to about $610.40 per week, $2,645.07 per month, and $31,740.80 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in Arlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding outlook for those seeking opportunities in food preparation and kitchen roles.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Arlington varies depending on experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of the typical pay range by experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.94 | $517.60 | $2,243.73 | $26,123.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.26 | $610.40 | $2,645.07 | $31,740.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.99 | $719.60 | $3,131.87 | $37,419.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Arlington Earn Tips?
Generally, Prep Cooks do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation and assisting chefs. Their earnings usually come solely from their wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.40 per hour, translating to about $34,112 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Arlington earn slightly less, at about $15.26 per hour and $31,740.80 annually. This difference may be influenced by local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Prep Cooks, such as:
- Crystal City: $18.00 per hour
- Rosslyn: $22.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Rosslyn can expect a higher salary compared to Arlington proper, while Crystal City offers a moderate increase.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Arlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services usually offers better pay than fast food or casual dining places.
- Certifications and Training: Relevant culinary certifications and food safety training can boost salary potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts might come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Market Demand: The increasing demand for skilled kitchen staff in Arlington positively influences salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Arlington
Getting started as a Prep Cook in Arlington includes taking several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Programs: Consider enrolling in programs like the Arlington Career Center Culinary Arts & Sciences Program, which provides hands-on training in food preparation, safety, and restaurant management. This program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation’s Accrediting Commission.
- Pursue Higher Education: Northern Virginia Community College offers a Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts specialization leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree, which can enhance career prospects.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and Certified Fundamental Cook (CFC) demonstrate knowledge of food safety and culinary fundamentals, which many employers require.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps build necessary skills and connections.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Arlington
Several prominent employers in Arlington that commonly hire Prep Cooks include:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Arlington Work At
Prep Cooks are typically employed in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide steady work and may offer an entry point into kitchen roles, although salaries tend to be moderate.
- Fast Casual Dining: Fast-paced environments that often offer flexible hours but may have lower wages than full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations often pay more and may offer benefits, increasing earning potential.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: These can offer varied work with possible opportunities for overtime or bonuses.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary, with upscale hotels and fine dining venues generally paying higher wages for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Prep Cooks
There are several roles related to Prep Cook that might interest those in the culinary hospitality field:
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef, roles that share kitchen responsibilities and have similar career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Arlington
It’s important for Prep Cooks to understand the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Learn about state labor laws and employment resources on the Virginia government website.
- For local Arlington regulations and services, visit the Arlington County official website.
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor’s site at dol.gov.