Prep Cook Salary in Compton, CA
Prep Cooks in Compton, CA earn approximately $19.62 per hour, which translates to about $784.80 per week, $3,400.80 per month, and $40,809.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Compton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signifying a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this role within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Compton, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Compton varies based on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of the earnings across different experience levels.
| 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) | $19.62 | $784.80 | $3,393.60 | $40,809.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.56 | $902.40 | $3,902.40 | $46,924.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Compton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting kitchen operations, rather than direct customer service or table deliveries.
Prep Cook Salary in Compton vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $16.83, which corresponds to an annual income of around $35,006.40.
Comparatively, Prep Cooks in Compton earn $19.62 per hour and approximately $40,809.60 annually, marking a higher earning potential than the national average driven by local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Compton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Compton: $20.50 per hour
- North Compton: $21.00 per hour
These neighboring localities provide slightly better wages, reflecting their respective market conditions and employer demands.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Compton?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Compton is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills and food safety knowledge tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or specialty food services often leads to better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Possessing certifications such as food handling or safety can boost earning potential.
- Shift Hours and Flexibility: Those willing to work night or weekend shifts might receive shift differentials, enhancing income.
- Local Market Demand: High demand for kitchen staff in Compton supports competitive salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Compton, CA
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Compton involves a few essential steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Compton College Culinary Arts Program offers hands-on training in food prep and kitchen management, ideal for beginners.
- Enroll in Nearby Programs: Los Angeles Trade-Technical College provides advanced culinary education for aspiring kitchen professionals.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often required and valuable.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or internships allow one to build relevant skills and work habits.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Compton
The following companies are among the notable employers frequently seeking Prep Cooks in Compton:
- Texas Roadhouse
- McDonald's
- El Pollo Loco
- IHOP
- Wingstop
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Compton Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across several types of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Usually provide stable work with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Offer faster-paced work environments; pay varies based on brand and volume.
- Fine Dining Establishments: May offer higher wages reflecting the complexity and quality of cuisine but require greater skill.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: Often pay premium rates and provide opportunities for advancement.
The type and scale of the establishment can greatly impact the salary and growth prospects of a Prep Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Compton for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider exploring these positions that share skills and industry overlap.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, all roles that involve food preparation and kitchen support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Compton
Prep Cooks in Compton should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure their rights and income are protected.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching employment standards.
- Check the California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations for state-specific rules applicable to jobs in Compton.