Prep Cook Salary in Denton, TX
Prep Cooks in Denton, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.83 per hour, which translates to about $553.20 per week, $2,397.20 per month, and $28,766.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Denton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising job prospects and an expanding need for skilled kitchen support staff in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Denton, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Denton varies based on experience, skills, and the employer. Here is a breakdown of the typical pay at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.70 | $388.00 | $1,676.67 | $20,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.83 | $553.20 | $2,397.20 | $28,766.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.72 | $788.80 | $3,405.33 | $40,960.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Denton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips because their duties are performed behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from their hourly wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Denton vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Denton earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $13.83 and annual pay of around $28,766.40. This difference may reflect local wage standards and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas around Denton offer varied pay scales for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Denton: $15.50 per hour
- University Area: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks working in the University Area can earn a notably higher wage compared to those in Downtown Denton or Denton city as a whole.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Denton?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Denton. These include:
- Experience and Skill Level: With more experience, Prep Cooks typically receive higher wages due to improved efficiency and skill mastery.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays more than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Education and Certifications: While formal qualifications are not always required, having food safety certifications can positively impact pay.
- Shift Timing: Prep Cooks on late-night or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials that increase total compensation.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic factors and regional demand for food service workers play roles in wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Denton
Becoming a Prep Cook in Denton involves several possible pathways and steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Knowledge: Starting with on-the-job training or short courses in food preparation can be effective.
- Obtain Food Handler's Permit: This permit is required by Texas for all food service employees and ensures knowledge of safe food handling.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: A nationally recognized credential for food safety, which many employers prefer.
- Consider Formal Education: Programs like the BAS in Culinary Science and Food Service Management or BS in Food and Nutrition in Business and Industry from Texas Woman's University can provide a strong foundation for advancing in culinary fields.
- Build Experience: Working in kitchens, even in entry-level roles, builds practical skills and helps in progressing to more responsible positions.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Denton
Several popular restaurants and dining establishments in Denton actively seek skilled Prep Cooks, including:
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
- Barley & Board
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Denton Work At
Prep Cooks in Denton can find employment in various food service settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer a steady flow of work with moderate wages; often good entry points.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally provide flexible hours and consistent workload; wages are competitive at mid-level.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: Tend to pay higher salaries due to upscale clientele and higher volume of food prep.
- Catering Companies: Offer seasonal and event-based work that may come with opportunities for higher earnings.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, with upscale or hotel kitchens typically providing better compensation than fast food or small casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denton for Prep Cooks
If you're considering career paths related to a Prep Cook, here are several similar roles that could be of interest:
These include Fry Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Commis Chef, roles that involve related culinary and kitchen duties with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Denton
Working as a Prep Cook in Denton, TX, means being subject to certain labor laws and tax requirements which can be explored through official resources.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission's website offers specific resources dealing with state labor laws and workforce development.
- Information regarding local permits and regulations in Denton can be found at the City of Denton's official website.