Prep Cook Salary in Birmingham, AL
Prep Cooks in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.89 per hour, which translates to about $635.60 per week, $2,754.27 per month, and $33,051.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for culinary support roles in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Birmingham varies depending on experience and employer, but typically ranges as follows for different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.34 | $493.60 | $2,132.27 | $25,592.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.89 | $635.60 | $2,754.27 | $33,051.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.48 | $819.20 | $3,530.13 | $42,598.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips, as their role focuses on food preparation away from direct customer service. Their income is usually comprised of wages alone.
Prep Cook Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.89 per hour, or about $33,051.20 annually.
In Birmingham, Prep Cooks earn roughly the same as the national average, with an hourly rate and yearly salary closely matching the broader U.S. market standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Prep Cooks
Nearby cities offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Foley: $16.05 per hour
- Hoover: $15.54 per hour
Foley presents the highest earning potential for Prep Cooks near Birmingham, while Hoover offers salaries just below the city's average rate.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Birmingham:
- Experience Level and Skill Set: More experienced Prep Cooks or those skilled at specific culinary tasks often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services typically receive better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those willing to work night or weekend shifts may receive differential pay.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or American Culinary Federation (ACF) certification can boost earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Birmingham
Becoming a Prep Cook in Birmingham generally involves a combination of education, training, and gaining practical experience.
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs at Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute or Lawson State Community College Culinary Arts Program offer practical skills and industry certifications.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification are valuable credentials for aspiring Prep Cooks.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships helps develop essential culinary techniques and work habits.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Birmingham
Several prominent employers in Birmingham regularly seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- P.F. Chang's
- BrickTop's
- Compass Group
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Birmingham Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in various food service settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work and a moderate salary scale.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Generally offer entry-level roles with consistent hours but lower pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Tend to offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Hospitals and Institutional Kitchens: These can provide stable employment with competitive pay depending on the facility.
The type of establishment directly influences the pay, work environment, and benefits available to Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Prep Cook
If you're interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these related careers offering complementary skills and opportunities:
These jobs include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Porter, roles that share kitchen responsibilities and culinary skills with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Birmingham
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper employment conditions:
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide guidelines.
- Check the State of Alabama Department of Labor website for regional labor regulations and worker rights.