Prep Cook in Boise, ID
Prep Cooks in Boise, ID, in 2026, earn approximately $17.23 per hour, which translates to about $689.20 per week, $2,986.53 per month, and $35,838.40 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Boise is growing positively at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand and expanding opportunities for those entering this essential hospitality role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Boise ranges depending on experience level, skillset, and place of employment. Whether new to the field or a seasoned professional, earnings can vary across different positions and locations within the city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.60 | $464.00 | $2,006.67 | $24,128.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.23 | $689.20 | $2,986.53 | $35,838.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.60 | $1,024.00 | $4,426.67 | $53,248.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Boise Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes and does not involve directly serving customers. Their total compensation usually comes from wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.00 per hour, translating to a yearly salary of approximately $33,280.
Prep Cooks in Boise, with an average hourly wage of $17.23, earn slightly above the national average, reflecting a competitive market and cost of living in Boise.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Prep Cooks
In surrounding Boise, pay rates for Prep Cooks vary slightly by area:
- Downtown Boise: $18.00 per hour
- Boise Airport Area: $16.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Boise usually benefit from higher wages compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Boise?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Boise can be influenced by several important factors that determine earning potential.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who master various kitchen techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants often make more than those in fast casual or cafeteria settings.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials, increasing overall pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Boise's cost of living and demand for hospitality staff play roles in wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Boise
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Boise involves a mix of gaining practical skills and relevant education.
- Hands-On Cooking Classes: Schools like Season + Taste offer recreational and professional cooking classes that help build fundamental skills.
- Culinary Arts Programs: Formal education such as the Culinary Arts Program at the College of Southern Idaho provides foundational culinary and hospitality knowledge.
- Food Safety Certifications: Credentials like ServSafe Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager demonstrate knowledge of food safety, increasing job opportunities.
- On-the-Job Training: Many Prep Cooks start by assisting in kitchens under supervision, gaining direct experience in food preparation.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Boise
Several notable employers actively seek qualified Prep Cooks in the Boise area, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Melting Pot
- Certified Kitchen + Bakery
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Boise Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across a wide range of food service establishments.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment with competitive wages depending on the restaurant's profile.
- Fast Casual Chains: These establishments demand fast-paced prep but often provide consistent hours and entry-level accessibility.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger venues may offer better benefits and slightly higher salaries.
- Specialty Bakeries and Cafés: Skill requirements at these locations can lead to above-average pay for experienced prep cooks.
The choice of establishment affects not only salary but also working conditions and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, there are several similar careers in the hospitality industry to consider that may offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Boise
Prep Cooks in Boise should stay informed about labor laws, taxation, and employment regulations relevant to the hospitality industry.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- To understand specific regulations and employment resources in Idaho, check the Idaho Department of Labor website.