Prep Cook Salary in Broken Arrow, OK
Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $13.11 per hour, which translates to about $524.40 per week, $2,272.40 per month, and $27,268.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local culinary and food service sectors.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Broken Arrow, OK?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Broken Arrow can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.04 | $401.60 | $1,740.53 | $20,886.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.55 | $542.00 | $2,333.33 | $28,184.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.30 | $732.00 | $3,160.00 | $37,936.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their duties primarily involve behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are typically based on hourly wages or salary alone.
Prep Cook Salary in Broken Arrow vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $13.55 per hour, translating to approximately $28,184 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow earn slightly less hourly at $13.11, and their annual salary of $27,268.80 is somewhat below the national figure.
This difference may result from local cost of living variances and the scale of food service operations in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Broken Arrow for Prep Cooks
Nearby localities offer higher wages for Prep Cooks, including:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Broken Arrow: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate to these neighborhoods may find better compensation.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Broken Arrow?
Several key factors affect the earnings of a Prep Cook:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with additional culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens often pays better than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Certifications: Holding food safety or culinary certifications can enhance pay prospects.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Some shifts, like evenings or weekends, may offer premium pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Broken Arrow
Becoming a Prep Cook in Broken Arrow involves a combination of education and experience:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs like Tulsa Community College Culinary Arts Program or Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program, which provide comprehensive culinary education and hands-on skills.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure knowledge of proper food handling and safety practices.
- Obtain Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate foundational proficiency and can improve employment chances.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as a kitchen assistant or in related roles can provide valuable experience.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow
Prominent employers looking to hire Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow include:
- Chili's
- Baptist Village Communities
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in various culinary settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work but often with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May provide slightly different working conditions and wages, often with higher turnover.
- Hotels and Resorts: These usually offer better wages and benefits, reflecting the demands and skills required.
- Catering Companies and Institutional Kitchens: Sometimes offer competitive pay depending on scale and clientele.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence a Prep Cook’s salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Broken Arrow for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these related hospitality jobs:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which require overlapping culinary skills and offer diverse career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Broken Arrow
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure compliance and fair treatment:
- Review the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and workers' rights.
- Consult the Oklahoma state government's official site for localized labor laws, minimum wage information, and employer requirements.