Prep Cook Salary in Everett, WA
Prep Cooks in Everett, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Everett is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating promising opportunities and a steady increase in job availability for those entering the culinary field.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Everett, WA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Everett can depend on various factors like experience, employer type, and skills. Below is an overview of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,286.67 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Everett Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen prep areas. Their compensation is typically based on hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Everett vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which is about $30,160.00 per year.
Comparing this with Everett, Prep Cooks earn notably more locally, at about $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually, reflecting the regional cost of living and demand for culinary workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Everett for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas show slightly higher pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Port Gardner: $18.50 per hour
- Holly: $19.00 per hour
Those willing to commute or live near Holly may benefit from some of the highest salaries for Prep Cooks in the region.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Everett?
Several factors contribute to how much a Prep Cook can earn in Everett, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who demonstrate strong knife skills, knowledge of ingredients, and kitchen efficiency are typically paid higher.
- Type of Establishment: Working at higher-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies usually offers better pay compared to fast food or casual dining locations.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary training or food safety certifications can positively impact salary and job prospects.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift premiums that increase overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: The growth of hospitality businesses in Everett drives demand and can lead to competitive wages for skilled Prep Cooks.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Everett
Starting a career as a Prep Cook involves a combination of education, training, and experience.
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Everett Community College and Professional Cooking Program at Edmonds College provide practical skills and foundational knowledge crucial for culinary jobs.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Mandatory certificates such as the Food Handler's Permit in Washington State and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are important for employment in food service.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many start as kitchen assistants or interns to build their knife skills, speed, and understanding of kitchen operations.
- Showcase Reliability and Efficiency: Kitchens are fast-paced environments where dependability and speed can lead to career progression.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Everett
Leading employers looking for skilled Prep Cooks in Everett include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Everett Work At
Prep Cooks typically work across a variety of kitchens, including:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer steady work but generally lower pay.
- Casual Restaurants: These kitchens provide a balance between steady work and wage increases.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Jobs here often offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: These locations typically pay higher wages but require advanced skills and professionalism.
The type of establishment significantly influences pay, with upscale venues and catering generally offering better compensation for Prep Cooks than fast food or casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Everett for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring roles related to being a Prep Cook, here are some similar careers worth considering.
These include roles such as Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Cook, which involve related culinary duties and varying scopes of responsibility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Everett
Prep Cooks should be informed about federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations that impact their employment.
- Details on workplace standards, minimum wage, and overtime pay can be found at the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Washington State-specific labor laws and workplace safety information are available at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- For local government resources and employment guidance, the City of Everett official website is a valuable resource.