Prep Cook Salary in Fairbanks, AK
Prep Cooks in Fairbanks, AK, in 2025, earn approximately $18.30 per hour, which translates to about $732.00 per week, $3,172.00 per month, and $38,064.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Fairbanks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and a positive outlook for those entering this culinary support role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Fairbanks, AK?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Fairbanks varies based on experience and skills. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels in this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.74 | $469.60 | $2,029.07 | $24,349.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.30 | $732.00 | $3,172.00 | $38,064.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.53 | $1,141.20 | $4,932.20 | $59,366.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Fairbanks Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen, focusing on food preparation rather than customer interaction. Tips are usually earned by servers or front-of-house staff.
Prep Cook Salary in Fairbanks vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $33,280 per year.
Comparatively, Prep Cooks in Fairbanks earn slightly more, at about $18.30 hourly and $38,064 annually. This reflects local market conditions and possibly a higher cost of living or demand for culinary workers in Alaska.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairbanks for Prep Cooks
When exploring nearby areas with higher pay rates for Prep Cooks, the following districts in the vicinity of Fairbanks offer better compensation:
- Downtown: $20.00 per hour
- University District: $19.50 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Downtown or the University District tend to earn more, possibly due to the concentration of restaurants and demand from educational institutions.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Fairbanks?
Several key factors influence the salary that a Prep Cook can earn in Fairbanks, AK:
- Experience: More years in culinary roles generally increase pay opportunities.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in food safety, knife skills, or knowledge of particular cuisines can affect wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or catering services often pay more than fast-food or casual dining outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might come with premium pay.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications or completing culinary programs can boost earning potential.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Fairbanks
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Fairbanks involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at University of Alaska Fairbanks offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Take Specialized Courses: The Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center provides focused courses on food preparation and safety essential for kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Alaska Food Worker Card are often required by employers to ensure proper handling of food.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships can provide valuable practical knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Fairbanks
Several reputable employers in Fairbanks regularly hire Prep Cooks, including:
- US Bureau of Land Management
- Family Centered Services of Alaska
- Fairbanks Native Association
- NMS
- Chartwells Higher Education
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Fairbanks Work At
Prep Cooks in Fairbanks typically work across a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer a steady work environment with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: The pace is faster and may offer entry-level opportunities with competitive wages.
- Catering Services: Often pay better due to specialized menu preparations and event-based work.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide higher wages combined with benefits and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary since high-end or specialized kitchens tend to offer more competitive pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairbanks for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in expanding your career options beyond the Prep Cook role, here are some related hospitality positions worth considering:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Cook roles, which involve advancing culinary skills and responsibilities in kitchen environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Fairbanks
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Prep Cooks to navigate their employment conditions and financial obligations effectively.
- Explore the State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for local laws on wages, overtime, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor standards and workforce data, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website offers a wide range of relevant information.