Prep Cook Salary in Chico, CA
Prep Cooks in Chico, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.65 per hour, which translates to about $786.00 per week, $3,406.00 per month, and $40,872.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Chico is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities in food preparation roles annually.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Chico, CA, depends on experience, with different pay scales for entry-level, mid-level, and top earners in the role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.65 | $786.00 | $3,406.00 | $40,872.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.49 | $899.60 | $3,898.27 | $46,779.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Chico, CA Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is predominantly behind the scenes in kitchen preparation. Earnings are typically from wages and not supplemented by tipping.
Prep Cook Salary in Chico, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.11 per hour, or around $33,508.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Chico earn more, with a typical hourly wage of $19.65 and annual salary near $40,872.00, reflecting a stronger local market or higher cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Chapmantown: $21.00 per hour
- Downtown Chico: $20.50 per hour
These variations show that commuting to areas like Chapmantown might result in higher earnings.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Chico?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Chico:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with stronger knife skills and knowledge of kitchen procedures tend to receive higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or large catering services usually pays more than small cafes or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Chico’s evolving culinary scene can influence salaries upward.
- Certifications: Having food safety certifications may enhance employability and salary.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Chico
Becoming a Prep Cook in Chico can be achieved by following a few key steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Butte College Culinary Arts Program offer practical training in food preparation, safety, and kitchen skills essential for this role.
- Pursue Hospitality Knowledge: The Chico State University Hospitality Management Program provides foundational knowledge that supports food service careers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often required by employers to ensure safe food handling.
- Gain Workplace Experience: Entry-level roles, internships, or apprenticeships help build the necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Chico
Several well-known employers in Chico frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Olive Garden
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
- Mom's Restaurant
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Chico Work At
Prep Cooks in Chico find roles in a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady shifts but may have moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically focus on speed and volume, sometimes with lower pay but more frequent hiring.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: May provide higher wages and opportunities to learn advanced cooking techniques.
- Breweries and Catering Services: Places like Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. offer unique environments for Prep Cooks and can pay competitively.
The type of establishment can significantly influence earnings, benefits, and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Prep Cooks
Those interested in related roles to Prep Cook might consider positions such as:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Porter, all roles that involve similar kitchen work and may offer different salary ranges and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Chico
Prep Cooks in Chico should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations governing their employment:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed information on state labor laws and regulations applicable to food service workers.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services, wage information, and workers' rights.
- For federal labor standards and resources, check the U.S. Department of Labor.