Prep Cook Salary in Chesapeake, VA
Prep Cooks in Chesapeake, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.03 per hour, which translates to about $641.20 per week, $2,778.53 per month, and $33,342.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Chesapeake is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the food preparation field within the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Chesapeake, VA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Chesapeake can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.44 | $537.60 | $2,324.80 | $27,891.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,778.53 | $33,342.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,470.93 | $41,641.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Chesapeake Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks usually do not earn tips since their duties are primarily focused on behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is most often restricted to their hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Chesapeake vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.40 per hour, translating to about $34,112 per year.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Chesapeake earn slightly less hourly at $16.03 per hour and about $33,342.40 annually.
These variations are commonly due to differences in local cost of living, demand, and employer scale.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chesapeake for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Prep Cooks:
- Greenbrier: $17.50 per hour
- Great Bridge: $18.00 per hour
Prep Cooks commuting to Great Bridge can expect the highest pay among neighboring locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Chesapeake?
Several factors can affect the earnings of a Prep Cook in Chesapeake:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Prep Cooks or those with years of experience typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often leads to better pay compared to smaller casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Additional food safety certifications or culinary courses can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with premiums that improve overall pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Chesapeake
Becoming a Prep Cook in Chesapeake involves several practical steps to prepare for this position:
- Gain Basic Culinary Education: Institutions like CheasKitchen Culinary Courses provide hands-on cooking classes ideal for building essential kitchen skills and confidence.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to meet health and safety standards in food service jobs.
- Build Experience: Starting with entry-level kitchen positions, internships, or apprenticeships helps develop relevant skills and opens career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Chesapeake
Several well-known employers actively recruit Prep Cooks in Chesapeake, including:
- Aramark
- Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
- Village Inn
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Chesapeake Work At
Prep Cooks in Chesapeake are typically employed by a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues usually offer steady work but may offer moderate pay compared to fine dining.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide consistent hours, but salaries may be on the lower end of the pay scale.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can offer higher salaries and sometimes benefits, depending on the scale.
- Specialty Food Establishments: Smaller gourmet or specialty venues might provide opportunities for skill development and higher pay.
Salary levels often vary based on the prestige, size, and type of the establishment, with high-end or large-scale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chesapeake for Prep Cooks
If you are considering related roles in the hospitality industry, here are some similar careers that might interest you:
These roles include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Cook, each involving culinary preparation skills and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Chesapeake
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with both federal and state regulations to ensure fair employment and compliance:
- For federal labor laws visit the U.S. Department of Labor website which provides comprehensive employment standards information.
- The Virginia state website offers specific resources regarding state labor laws, wages, and employment guidelines.