Prep Cook Salary in Cary, NC
Prep Cooks in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary and food preparation sector in this area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cary depends on several factors, including experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $41,280.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cary Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips because their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly pay for Prep Cooks is approximately $16.62, with an average yearly salary of about $34,569.60.
Prep Cooks in Cary, NC, earn slightly more than the national average, making about $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually. This difference may be influenced by regional factors such as cost of living and job market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- Preston: $19.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Preston or Downtown might find better pay opportunities compared to Cary’s average rates.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cary?
A Prep Cook’s salary in Cary can be influenced by several factors including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks often command higher wages.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in food safety, knife skills, and kitchen equipment operation can affect pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catering companies may offer better salaries than fast casual or standard dining spots.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials.
- Local Job Market Demand: Higher demand in Cary or nearby areas can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cary
Becoming a Prep Cook in Cary involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience.
Many aspiring Prep Cooks start by completing culinary programs such as the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program. These programs offer hands-on training in cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations.
Obtaining certifications can improve job prospects and salary potential. The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers. Additionally, the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential, offered by the American Culinary Federation, establishes a strong foundation of culinary knowledge and skills.
Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in kitchens helps build the essential skills needed for the job.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cary
Several prominent employers in Cary seek skilled Prep Cooks, including:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Nanas Soul Food Kitchen
- Doc B's Fresh Kitchen
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cary Work At
Prep Cooks in Cary can find work across a variety of culinary establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and consistent pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: May offer slightly lower wages but faster-paced environments.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Frequently offer higher wages reflecting skill expectations and quality standards.
- Catering Companies: May provide specialized experiences and varied work hours with potential higher pay.
The type of establishment influences salary based on service level, clientele, and expectations for food preparation expertise.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider related positions in the hospitality industry that share culinary skills and provide various career paths.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, all of which involve culinary preparation roles with varying duties and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cary
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- For federal regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific guidelines, the North Carolina Department of Labor website provides detailed information.