Prep Cook Salary in El Monte, CA
Prep Cooks in El Monte, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.00 per hour, which translates to about $760.00 per week, $3,293.33 per month, and $39,520.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in El Monte is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary support and kitchen staff in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in El Monte, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in El Monte varies based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in El Monte Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mostly involves behind-the-scenes kitchen preparation with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes from wages alone.
Prep Cook Salary in El Monte vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in El Monte earn significantly more, at about $19.00 per hour and $39,520 annually.
This difference is largely due to local living costs and regional demand for culinary labor.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Monte for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Norwood Cherrylee: $20.00 per hour
- Mountain View: $21.00 per hour
Working in Mountain View can offer Prep Cooks the highest hourly wages in the vicinity, which can be beneficial for career advancement or increased earnings.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in El Monte?
Several factors contribute to salary differences for Prep Cooks in El Monte:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills or knowledge of food preparation techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than casual or fast-food kitchens.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts often come with premium pay rates.
- Certifications: Holding food safety and culinary certifications can boost earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: El Monte’s economy and living expenses influence wage scales.
How To Become a Prep Cook in El Monte
Starting a career as a Prep Cook involves several steps to improve employability and salary prospects:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offer hands-on training and industry certifications.
- Engage in Local Culinary Education: The Pasadena City College Culinary Arts Program provides foundational and advanced courses for aspiring culinary professionals.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of proper food handling and safety.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate basic competency and enhance resumes.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Starting with kitchen assistant roles can provide essential hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in El Monte
Several prominent employers commonly hire Prep Cooks in the El Monte area, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Panda Express
- Denny's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in El Monte Work At
Prep Cooks in El Monte find jobs across a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Chains: These typically provide consistent schedules with moderate pay and fast-paced environments.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Wages can be higher here, and cooks may experience more diverse culinary tasks.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments often offer better benefits and pay for experienced Prep Cooks.
- Catering Companies: These may involve event-based work and variable schedules but can provide opportunities to develop a broad skill set.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary, work environment, and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Monte for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in similar career paths related to Prep Cook roles, consider the following options:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all of which involve culinary preparation tasks similar to those of Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in El Monte
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with employment laws and tax obligations specific to California and federal statutes.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal employment information and guidelines.