Prep Cook Salary in Bend, OR
Prep Cooks in Bend, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $21.19 per hour, which translates to about $847.60 per week, $3,672.93 per month, and $44,075.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Bend is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job outlook and expansion in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Bend, OR?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Bend varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,626.13 | $31,513.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.72 | $748.80 | $3,228.80 | $38,937.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.10 | $924.00 | $3,994.00 | $47,948.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Bend, OR Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as they primarily work behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than direct customer interaction. Their income is based mostly on wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Bend, OR vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $18.72 per hour, which translates to approximately $38,937.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Bend earn slightly more, with an hourly wage of $21.19 and an annual salary of $44,075.20. This indicates a competitive pay scale in the Bend area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bend for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer differing pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Sunriver: $21.27 per hour
- Redmond: $19.57 per hour
Sunriver offers a slightly higher hourly wage compared to Bend, while Redmond’s pay is somewhat lower but still competitive.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Bend, OR?
The salary of a Prep Cook can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with knowledge of knife skills, food safety, and kitchen efficiency earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or specialty food service providers often pay more than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications like ServSafe can positively impact salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working night or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials that increase overall pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Bend, OR
To become a Prep Cook in Bend, you can follow these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Schools such as Central Oregon Community College Culinary Arts Program and Cascade Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training that prepares students for culinary roles including Prep Cook.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Required certifications in Oregon include a Food Handler's Permit and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification, both key for legal and professional compliance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs, internships, or apprenticeships provide hands-on experience essential for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Bend, OR
Some prominent employers in Bend looking for Prep Cooks include:
- Sunriver Brewing Company
- Three Creeks Brew Pub
- Crux Fermentation Project
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Bend Work At
Prep Cooks typically work across a variety of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast-casual spots, breweries, catering companies, and hotels.
The type of establishment often influences earnings—fast-casual and casual places may offer lower pay than upscale or specialty restaurants, which tend to have higher standards and budgets for kitchen staff.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bend, OR for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these careers which share culinary and kitchen duties:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Commis Chef, each providing a pathway to further culinary expertise and salary growth.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Bend, OR
Prep Cooks need to be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Oregon and at the federal level.
- Visit the State of Oregon's official website for detailed information on labor laws, minimum wage, overtime, and tax requirements.
- For federal labor standards and workplace regulations check the U.S. Department of Labor website.