Prep Cook Salary in Cape Coral, FL
Prep Cooks in Cape Coral, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.98 per hour, which translates to about $679.20 per week, $2,943.20 per month, and $35,318.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Cape Coral is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cape Coral, FL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cape Coral varies by experience level and employer, but below is a general breakdown of earnings based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.20 | $568.00 | $2,460.67 | $29,536.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.98 | $679.20 | $2,943.20 | $35,318.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.30 | $812.00 | $3,506.67 | $42,224.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cape Coral Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting the kitchen staff. Their earnings mostly come from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Cape Coral vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $31,200 per year.
Compared to this national average, Prep Cooks in Cape Coral earn a bit more, with an average hourly wage of $16.98 and an annual salary of about $35,318.40.
This higher pay can be influenced by regional demand and cost of living factors in Cape Coral.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cape Coral for Prep Cooks
Nearby cities that offer higher pay rates for Prep Cooks include:
- Marco Island: $19.47 per hour
- Lake Worth: $18.35 per hour
Prep Cooks seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in these neighboring areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cape Coral?
Several factors contribute to the variation in salary for Prep Cooks in Cape Coral:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks typically earn higher wages as they develop kitchen efficiency and culinary skills.
- Skill Set: Additional skills such as knife techniques, food safety knowledge, and ability to multitask can improve earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering services usually yields better pay than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Education and Certifications: Completing culinary programs or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Night, weekend, or holiday shifts might pay higher rates or overtime.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cape Coral
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Cape Coral, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality at Cape Coral Technical College, an 11-month program offering hands-on culinary techniques and leading to Prep Cook roles and beyond.
- High School Culinary Programs: The Culinary Arts program at Cape Coral High School offers ServSafe certification, educating students on food safety important for entering the food service industry.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning ServSafe Certification demonstrates knowledge of foodborne illness prevention and is often required by employers.
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: For those aiming to grow, the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certifications offer various levels of culinary credentialing.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cape Coral
Several dining and hospitality establishments in Cape Coral frequently seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- Ford's Garage
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
- First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cape Coral Work At
Prep Cooks in Cape Coral typically work in a variety of food service settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often require fast-paced prep work with competitive wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay and benefits due to prestige and clientele.
- Catering Companies: Prep Cooks in catering can experience variable schedules but higher pay for event work.
The salary for a Prep Cook can greatly depend on the establishment's size, reputation, and type of cuisine served.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cape Coral for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to Prep Cook, consider the following roles which share similarities in responsibilities or career progression:
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Manager, which offer paths for advancement within the kitchen and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cape Coral
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure fair working conditions and compliance with legal requirements.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific employment and labor information, consult the official site of Florida Jobs and Labor.