Prep Cook Salary in Atlanta, GA
Prep Cooks in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.98 per hour, which translates to about $639.20 per week, $2,769.87 per month, and $33,238.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Atlanta varies based on experience, skills, and the employing establishment. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.54 | $501.60 | $2,172.80 | $26,083.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.98 | $639.20 | $2,769.87 | $33,238.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.36 | $814.40 | $3,524.27 | $42,348.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role primarily involves kitchen preparation work without direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually consist solely of their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Prep Cooks is about $15.98 per hour, which equals roughly $33,238.40 annually.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Atlanta earn approximately the same as the national average, indicating that the city offers competitive wages aligned with nationwide standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Prep Cooks
Nearby locations offer varying salaries for Prep Cooks, including:
- Pooler: $16.05 per hour
- Savannah: $15.31 per hour
Pooler offers slightly higher wages compared to Savannah and Atlanta, presenting potential opportunities for those willing to commute or relocate nearby.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several factors determine how much a Prep Cook can earn in Atlanta:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Prep Cooks usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels may pay more compared to casual dining or fast food chains.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary certifications or formal culinary education can positively impact salary.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might receive differential pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: The culinary demand in Atlanta influences wages offered to Prep Cooks.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Atlanta
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Atlanta, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Skills: Completing culinary training at places like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts provides a solid foundation focusing on classical techniques and modern cuisine.
- Enroll in Local Programs: The Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program offers practical training emphasizing industry standards ideal for aspiring Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrate essential knowledge of safe food handling practices, which is often required by employers.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can showcase foundational culinary skills and boost employability.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Atlanta
Several well-known employers recruiting Prep Cooks in Atlanta include:
- Delaware North
- Chick-fil-A Corporate
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Atlanta Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in a variety of food service establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places often offer steady schedules but variable pay depending on brand and location.
- Fast Casual Chains: Employment here may offer slightly lower wages but more opportunities for entry-level cooks.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually offer higher wages and may provide benefits, with expectations for higher culinary standards.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Pay tends to be higher reflecting the complexity of food preparation and skills required.
The type and reputation of the establishment significantly impact the salary and advancement potential of a Prep Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Prep Cooks
For those interested in similar career paths to Prep Cooking, several related roles exist within the hospitality industry that might suit different skills or aspirations.
These roles include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, which involve progressive levels of responsibility and skill in the kitchen.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Atlanta
Prep Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and understand their employment rights.
- For federal regulations, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific details can be found on the Georgia Department of Labor website.