Prep Cook Salary in Fort Worth, TX
Prep Cooks in Fort Worth, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Fort Worth is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects for those entering the culinary field in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Fort Worth, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Fort Worth varies by experience level and skill. Below is a snapshot of the typical earnings at different stages in this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Fort Worth Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly comes from their wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Fort Worth, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn around $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Fort Worth earn slightly less, with about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually.
This variance may reflect regional cost of living differences and local demand for culinary workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Worth for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, salaries for Prep Cooks can be higher depending on location:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West 7th: $17.60 per hour
These neighborhoods likely offer premium pay due to their bustling food scenes and concentration of higher-end dining establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Fort Worth?
Several factors can impact a Prep Cook’s salary in Fort Worth:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks usually command higher wages.
- Skillset: Mastery of certain culinary techniques or kitchen equipment can enhance earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants often pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding food safety or culinary certificates can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Fort Worth
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Fort Worth involves several key steps:
Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Local institutions such as Tarrant County College Culinary Arts Program and The Culinary School of Fort Worth offer comprehensive education that builds foundational skills and knowledge.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the Texas Food Handler Certification and ServSafe Certification are essential for food handling compliance and can boost employability.
Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships in a kitchen environment help develop hands-on preparation skills required for the role.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Fort Worth
Fort Worth's diverse food scene features numerous employers seeking skilled Prep Cooks. Notable among them are:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Fort Worth Work At
Prep Cooks find work in various establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically have standardized menus and provide structured, consistent hours but lower pay.
- Casual Dining: These offer moderate salaries with more varied food preparation tasks.
- Fine Dining: Higher pay potential exists here due to complex menu items and higher service standards.
- Catering Services and Hotels: These operations may offer more opportunities and sometimes better pay depending on scale.
The establishment type directly influences both job complexity and salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Worth for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in related roles in the hospitality industry, consider the following similar careers that also involve food preparation and kitchen operations:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Fort Worth
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax requirements to manage their rights and responsibilities effectively.
- Consult the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for nationwide labor laws and guidelines.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website offers state-specific resources on employment and labor laws.
- Information about local regulations can be found on the Fort Worth official government website.