Prep Cook Salary in Garland, TX
Prep Cooks in Garland, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The job outlook for Prep Cooks in Garland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, which indicates increasing demand in the food service industry locally. This positive growth suggests a healthy market for culinary professionals entering this field annually.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Garland, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Garland varies based on experience and employer, but the table below provides a look at typical earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 Garland, TX Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role focuses mainly on kitchen preparation and they typically do not interact with customers directly. Their earnings mostly come from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Garland, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Garland, TX earn significantly more, making approximately $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually. This higher pay may reflect the local cost of living and demand for culinary workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garland, TX for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas tend to have slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks, including:
- Downtown Garland: $18.00 per hour
- Firewheel Town Center: $17.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Garland can expect the highest wages in the local region for this position, which might influence where Prep Cooks seek jobs.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Garland, TX?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Garland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who demonstrate advanced culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working for upscale or large-scale restaurants and catering companies often results in better pay compared to casual dining or fast food.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or Texas Food Handler Certification can improve salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes carry higher pay or bonuses.
- Local Economic Conditions: Garland’s economic growth and demand in hospitality impact salaries positively.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Garland, TX
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Garland involves a few practical steps to build necessary skills and credentials.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Consider studying at educational institutions like the Dallas College Culinary Arts Program or El Centro College Culinary Arts Program, which offer hands-on training vital for culinary roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Texas Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate knowledge of proper food handling, sanitation, and safety practices.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level roles in kitchens or internships help develop cooking and preparation skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Garland, TX
Several notable restaurant chains actively hire Prep Cooks in the Garland area:
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Applebee's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Garland, TX Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work across a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but may have moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: These establishments tend to offer entry-level opportunities with competitive but entry-level wages.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: Often pay higher wages reflecting the increased volume and complexity of food preparation.
- Specialty and Fine Dining Venues: Prep Cooks in these locations may receive higher pay due to skill requirements and quality standards.
The type of establishment influences salary and career growth potential as well as job duties and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garland, TX for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in similar careers to Prep Cook, here are a few you might consider that share related skills and responsibilities:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Line Cook, roles that share similar culinary preparation tasks and may offer advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Garland, TX
Prep Cooks in Garland should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and efficient financial management.
- Information on state employment standards including minimum wage and overtime can be found on the State of Texas official website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor official website provides federal labor laws and guidelines that govern work safety and wage regulations.