Prep Cook Salary in Billings, MT
Prep Cooks in Billings, MT, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Billings can vary based on experience and employer, but the general pay scale across various experience levels looks like this:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Billings Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily takes place behind the scenes. Their earnings are typically based solely on their hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Billings earn a higher hourly rate of $16.50 and an annual salary of $34,320.00, reflecting local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with somewhat higher pay for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown: $17.00 per hour
- West End: $16.50 per hour
These figures suggest that Prep Cooks working in Downtown Billings may expect slightly better pay compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Billings?
Several factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in Billings, including:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with solid knife skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and speed often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces such as upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering services may pay more than fast food chains or casual diners.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certificates, like ServSafe, can positively impact salary and job prospects.
- Work Schedule: Evening, overnight, or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials improving pay.
- Local Demand: Billings’ growing food industry contributes to rising salaries for kitchen staff.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Billings
Becoming a Prep Cook in Billings involves a combination of practical experience and certification:
- Gain Culinary Skills: Programs like the Fortin Culinary Center’s 12-week Culinary Job Skills Training Program provide hands-on experience and classroom instruction to prepare for employment in food service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification, administered by the National Restaurant Association, is essential for safe food handling practices.
- Start Entry-Level: Many Prep Cooks begin with little formal education and learn through on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Billings
Some of the prominent employers in Billings looking for Prep Cooks include:
- Northern Hotel
- BW Blacksmith Coffee Co
- HuHot Mongolian Grill
- Famous Dave's
- Applebee's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Billings Work At
Prep Cooks typically find jobs in various types of food service establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Steady positions with moderate wages; skills development is typical.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often have brisk work environments; wages can be competitive due to volume.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: May offer more consistent hours and benefits, sometimes with higher pay.
- Catering Companies: Can provide unique experience but pay varies greatly.
The type of establishment significantly influences compensation, with upscale or high-volume locations often offering better pay and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Prep Cooks
Those interested in expanding their career in the hospitality field might consider related jobs such as:
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter, which share overlapping skills and offer varied opportunities for growth and specialization.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Billings
Prep Cooks in Billings should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their employment:
- Review Montana state labor laws and employment resources on the official Montana government website.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website at dol.gov for federal labor regulations and worker rights.