Prep Cook Salary in Galveston, TX
Prep Cooks in Galveston, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Galveston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, which indicates a positive outlook in the job market for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Galveston, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Galveston varies based on experience and skill level, but the general pay ranges are as follows:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Galveston, TX Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Galveston, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $14.50 per hour, equating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Galveston earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $14.00 and an annual salary of about $29,120.
This small difference may be influenced by local economic factors such as cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Galveston for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Galveston: $15.00 per hour
- Seawall Boulevard: $16.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to these parts of Galveston might find better earning opportunities as a Prep Cook.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Galveston, TX?
Experience plays a crucial role in determining a Prep Cook’s salary. Those with more years in kitchen environments tend to earn better wages.
Skill set is another important factor, including knife skills, knowledge of food safety, and ability to assist in various cooking preparations.
Type of establishment also affects pay; working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialized catering services generally offers higher pay than fast food or casual dining.
Work hours and shift can influence salary - evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include shift differentials.
Local demand and cost of living influence wages as well; areas with high tourism or food culture often pay more.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Galveston, TX
Becoming a Prep Cook in Galveston involves a combination of education, certification, and on-the-job experience.
Professional culinary education is available through programs like the Galveston College Culinary Arts Program, which offers certificates and an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts with hands-on training.
Nearby, the Culinary Institute Lenôtre in Houston provides comprehensive culinary programs including degrees and diplomas, beneficial for aspiring culinary professionals.
Food safety certifications are essential; these include the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which verifies knowledge of food safety practices, and the Texas Food Manager Certification, required for those aiming at supervisory roles.
Starting with entry-level kitchen jobs and gaining practical experience is also important, as it helps develop skills relevant to prep cooking.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Galveston, TX
Several prominent establishments in Galveston offer opportunities for Prep Cooks, including:
- Fisherman's Wharf
- Fish Tales
- Holiday Inn
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Galveston, TX Work At
Prep Cooks in Galveston typically work in various food service settings such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, hotels, and catering companies.
Casual dining establishments often pay moderate wages but may offer consistent hours.
Fast casual and chain restaurants might offer entry-level opportunities but tend to pay less than higher-end restaurants or hotels.
Hotels and catering companies often provide better salaries and opportunities for advancement, especially for Prep Cooks who demonstrate strong skills.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Galveston, TX for Prep Cooks
For those interested in pursuing related roles, similar careers to Prep Cook include:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all of which involve culinary skills related to food preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Galveston, TX
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure their rights and responsibilities are clear.
- Federal labor laws and regulations are available on the Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission site provides state-specific employment laws and resources.
- For local regulations and information, the City of Galveston official website offers relevant updates.