Prep Cook Salary in Brownsville, TX
Prep Cooks in Brownsville, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.79 per hour, which translates to about $511.60 per week, $2,216.93 per month, and $26,603.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Brownsville is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities within the culinary and food service industry in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Brownsville, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Brownsville varies based on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.37 | $374.80 | $1,623.47 | $19,493.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.79 | $511.60 | $2,216.93 | $26,603.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.45 | $698.00 | $3,011.47 | $36,296.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Brownsville Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes, with minimal direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually come exclusively from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Brownsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $16.17, which amounts to approximately $33,633.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Brownsville earn less, with an hourly wage of $12.79 and an annual salary of about $26,603.20.
This difference may be due to variations in cost of living, demand, and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Brownsville for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly better wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Brownsville: $14.50 per hour
- North Brownsville: $15.00 per hour
These areas provide opportunities for Prep Cooks seeking higher pay within commute distance to Brownsville.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Brownsville?
Several factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in Brownsville:
- Experience Level: Those with more years working as a Prep Cook often command higher wages due to increased efficiency and skill.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in specific culinary techniques or possession of certifications like ServSafe can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or specialized catering companies tend to offer higher pay than fast food or casual eateries.
- Work Schedule: Prep Cooks willing to work weekends, holidays, or late shifts may receive differential pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall economic climate and demand for food services in Brownsville affect salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Brownsville
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Brownsville typically involves the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Texas Southmost College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in essential culinary skills suitable for Prep Cooks.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: The UTRGV Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provides knowledge that supports culinary operations and food service management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Texas requires a Food Handler Certification for all food service employees. Earning the ServSafe Certification is also highly recommended as it is nationally recognized and preferred by many employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in local kitchens help build fundamental skills necessary for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Brownsville
Several prominent employers in Brownsville that hire Prep Cooks include:
- Olive Garden
- Compass Group
- Kumori Sushi
- Sonic Drive-In
- Monarca Baja Kitchen
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Brownsville Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in various types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food Chains: While wages may be lower, these establishments usually offer flexible hours.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: May offer varied responsibilities and potentially higher pay during event seasons.
- Specialty Restaurants and Ethnic Cuisine Establishments: These may provide opportunities for skill development and higher salaries depending on complexity and reputation.
The nature of the establishment greatly influences salary, with upscale or specialty venues typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Brownsville for Prep Cooks
If you're considering careers similar to Prep Cook, here are a few related roles you may find interesting:
These include Fry Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Cook positions, each involving related culinary tasks and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Brownsville
Working as a Prep Cook in Brownsville requires understanding of relevant labor laws and tax regulations.
- You can find detailed labor laws and employment regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides resources specific to employment and labor laws within Texas.
- For local government information and services, visit the City of Brownsville official website.