Prep Cook Salary in Fargo, ND
Prep Cooks in Fargo, ND, in 2026, earn approximately $17.70 per hour, which translates to about $708.00 per week, $3,068.00 per month, and $36,816.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Fargo is growing moderately at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in food preparation roles within the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Fargo, ND?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Fargo varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different levels of experience.
| 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 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Fargo Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role mainly involves food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings are based on their base pay rather than tip income.
Prep Cook Salary in Fargo vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, which translates to about $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Fargo earn slightly more, at about $17.70 per hour and $36,816 annually.
This reflects Fargo's competitive wage rates for food preparation staff, possibly due to local demand and labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fargo for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- West Fargo: $18.43 per hour
- Fargo: $17.70 per hour
Prep Cooks in West Fargo tend to earn more compared to those directly in Fargo, which may influence job search decisions for candidates willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Fargo?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Prep Cook in Fargo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills or specialty in particular cuisines can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually brings better wages compared to casual dining or fast food chains.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may offer additional pay incentives.
- Certifications and Training: Holders of culinary certifications or food safety credentials tend to have better salary prospects.
- Local Labor Market: The supply of qualified workers versus demand in Fargo influences wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Fargo
Launching a career as a Prep Cook in Fargo involves several important steps.
- Gain Relevant Training: Programs like the North Dakota State University Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive culinary training with hands-on experience in modern kitchen facilities.
- Obtain Your Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential prerequisites for many employers.
- Consider Additional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation offers an entry-level certification demonstrating fundamental culinary skills.
- Build Kitchen Experience: Working in entry-level kitchen roles or internships can help develop practical skills and improve chances of employment.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Fargo
Several employers in Fargo regularly seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- Southtown Pourhouse
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
- Doolittles Woodfire Grill
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Fargo Work At
Prep Cooks in Fargo typically work across a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but usually moderate pay depending on the restaurant's scale.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often provide consistent hours with competitive but generally lower wages than fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may offer higher salaries and benefits to Prep Cooks along with opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: May offer varied work environments and sometimes higher pay based on event schedules.
The type of establishment directly influences salary—with higher-end and hotel kitchens typically paying more than smaller casual venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fargo for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to being a Prep Cook, here are a few related roles to consider.
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter positions, which involve hands-on food preparation and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Fargo
Prep Cooks should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure their rights and responsibilities are clear.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be explored on the Federal Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws in North Dakota, visit the official North Dakota government website.
- Information about local government rules and resources is available on the City of Fargo's official website.