Prep Cook Salary in Bismarck, ND
Prep Cooks in Bismarck, ND, in 2025, earn approximately $14.45 per hour, which is about $578.00 per week, $2,504.67 per month, and $30,056.00 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Bismarck is growing positively at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for this role within local food service establishments.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Bismarck, ND?
Prep Cook salaries in Bismarck vary based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical wages at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.86 | $514.40 | $2,225.33 | $26,704.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.75 | $670.00 | $2,893.33 | $34,840.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.82 | $872.80 | $3,769.33 | $45,286.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Bismarck Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations without direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Bismarck vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks make about $16.75 per hour, which equates to approximately $34,840 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Bismarck earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $14.45 and a yearly salary of $30,056. This difference may reflect local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bismarck for Prep Cooks
Nearby cities offer varied pay rates for Prep Cooks, including:
- West Fargo: $18.43 per hour
- Fargo: $17.70 per hour
Those willing to commute to West Fargo or Fargo may find higher wages than in Bismarck itself.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Bismarck?
A variety of factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Bismarck:
- Experience and skill level: More skilled Prep Cooks with several years of experience command higher wages.
- Type of establishment: Positions in fine dining or upscale restaurants often pay better than fast food or casual eateries.
- Certifications: Food safety and culinary certifications can improve job prospects and salary.
- Work schedule: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local demand: Seasonal fluctuations and local market needs impact available pay rates.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Bismarck
To launch a career as a Prep Cook in Bismarck, consider the following steps:
- Education: Enroll in local culinary training programs such as Bismarck State College Culinary Arts Program or United Tribes Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offer hands-on skills valuable to Prep Cooks.
- Certifications: Obtain a ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety. Pursuing the Certified Culinarian (CC) certification by the American Culinary Federation can also enhance your qualifications.
- Gain experience: Start in entry-level kitchen positions, volunteering for prep tasks to build familiarity with food preparation and kitchen operations.
- Networking: Connect with local chefs and industry professionals to learn about job openings and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Bismarck
The following employers are actively hiring Prep Cooks in Bismarck:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Bismarck Work At
Prep Cooks in Bismarck typically work in various food service settings, including:
- Fast food restaurants: Usually offer entry-level positions with lower pay but flexible hours.
- Casual dining: Positions in these establishments may provide better pay and opportunities to learn diverse culinary skills.
- Fine dining: Higher-end restaurants often pay more and expect advanced prep skills and precision.
- Catering services and institutional kitchens: These offer varied work environments and may pay competitive wages based on volume and complexity.
The establishment type significantly influences the salary and career growth opportunities for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bismarck for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, here are some similar careers worth considering:
These roles include Line Cook, Bar Manager, and Kitchen Supervisor, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Bismarck
Prep Cooks should be informed about the labor laws and tax requirements affecting their employment in Bismarck.
- For detailed federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific labor laws and resources are available on the North Dakota official website.