Prep Cook Salary in Carrollton, TX
Prep Cooks in Carrollton, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $16.58 per hour, which translates to about $663.20 per week, $2,873.87 per month, and $34,486.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Carrollton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an encouraging outlook for job opportunities in the food preparation and hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Carrollton, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Carrollton varies by experience and skill level, but the following breakdown provides a general guide across different stages of a Prep Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.24 | $529.60 | $2,291.47 | $27,539.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.58 | $663.20 | $2,873.87 | $34,486.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,598.40 | $43,180.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Carrollton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is predominantly behind the scenes, involving food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their income is primarily based on wages or salary without tip supplements.
Prep Cook Salary in Carrollton, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.58 per hour, which equates to about $34,486.40 annually.
Prep Cooks in Carrollton align closely with the national average, earning approximately the same hourly and yearly amounts. This parity suggests a balanced job market with competitive pay for the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Carrollton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas show variations in earnings for Prep Cooks:
- Nob Hill: $446,944 estimated yearly average compensation
- Parks of Carrollton: $544,194 estimated yearly average compensation
While the figures suggest substantial pay differences for Prep Cooks near Carrollton, the Parks of Carrollton area appears to offer significantly higher compensation opportunities.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Carrollton?
Several factors impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Carrollton:
- Experience: More years in food preparation sharpen skills and often lead to higher pay.
- Skill Level: Proficiency in knife skills, ingredient prepping, and kitchen efficiency raises earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally pay better than fast food or casual dining.
- Work Hours: Late-night or weekend shifts can come with premium pay or overtime.
- Certifications: Food handler and safety certifications can influence salary positively.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Carrollton
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Carrollton involves foundational culinary knowledge and food safety expertise:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as El Centro College Culinary Arts Program and Collin College Culinary Arts Program offer practical and theoretical training crucial for Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquiring a Food Handler Certification, mandatory in Texas, ensures compliance with local health codes. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is a nationally recognized credential to improve food safety skills.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships provide hands-on skills and familiarity with commercial kitchen environments.
- Develop Kitchen Skills: Focus on knife handling, ingredient prep, and kitchen sanitation for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Carrollton
Leading employers in Carrollton seeking Prep Cooks include:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Carrollton Work At
Prep Cooks typically work at various food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steadier schedules but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically offer faster-paced environments and wage scales on the lower side.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Tend to provide higher compensation and more skill development opportunities.
- Catering Companies: Work can be seasonal but may offer unique experiences and occasional higher pay.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary, with upscale venues generally offering better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Carrollton for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these related hospitality careers that require comparable skills and offer a range of salaries.
These roles include Line Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook, each offering diverse opportunities in the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Carrollton
Prep Cooks in Carrollton should be aware of important labor laws and tax information to understand their rights and responsibilities:
- For federal labor laws and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides state-specific employment laws and resources at https://www.twc.texas.gov.
- Additionally, the City of Carrollton official website offers insight into local regulations and services affecting workers.