Prep Cook Salary in Fairfield, CA
Prep Cooks in Fairfield, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.50 per hour, which translates to about $620.00 per week, $2,686.67 per month, and $32,240.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Fairfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food preparation sector within the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Fairfield varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown based on different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Fairfield Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is focused on food preparation behind the scenes, without direct customer interaction. Their income is mainly based on wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Fairfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, amounting to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Fairfield earn slightly higher wages at approximately $15.50 per hour and $32,240 annually. This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Fairfield: $16.00 per hour
- Cordelia: $17.00 per hour
Those working in Cordelia may enjoy the highest pay among the nearby locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Fairfield?
Several factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Fairfield:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined culinary skills tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Positions at upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than those at casual or fast-food venues.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can improve earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Extended or overnight shifts might include shift differentials boosting overall pay.
- Local Market Demand: Growing demand in the food service industry increases available job opportunities and wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Fairfield
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in Fairfield, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Solano Community College Culinary Arts Program or classes at the Napa Valley Cooking School provide valuable hands-on experience and knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service workers. Additionally, many pursue the ServSafe Certification for nationally recognized food safety training.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in kitchens help build essential skills.
- Develop Culinary Skills: Improving knife skills, ingredient prep efficiency, and knowledge of kitchen equipment will enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Fairfield
Some prominent employers in the area seeking Prep Cooks include:
- Jelly Belly Candy Company
- Anheuser-Busch Brewery
- NorthBay Healthcare
- Travis Air Force Base
- Solano Community College
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Fairfield Work At
Prep Cooks find employment opportunities in various types of establishments, each offering different environments and pay scales:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These venues often have higher turnover and moderate wages but provide steady work.
- Hotels and Resorts: Generally offer better pay with potential for career advancement.
- Catering Services and Large-Scale Food Production: May provide consistent hours and specialized prep tasks.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Positions here often emphasize food safety, with competitive wages.
The type of establishment directly impacts salary, benefits, and work conditions for Prep Cooks in Fairfield.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider exploring several related careers in hospitality and culinary fields.
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef roles, which share culinary skills and responsibilities closely tied to food preparation and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Fairfield
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is critical for Prep Cooks in Fairfield.
- The Federal website for labor laws and regulations is a primary resource for federal employment standards.
- California-specific rules can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations, including wage laws and workplace rights.
- Local resources and regulations are available through the Official city website of Fairfield.