Prep Cook Salary in Gilbert, AZ
Prep Cooks in Gilbert, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.84 per hour, which translates to about $713.60 per week, $3,092.27 per month, and $37,107.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Gilbert is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those considering this role in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Gilbert, AZ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Gilbert can vary depending on experience and employer, but below is a general overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,639.17 | $31,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.84 | $713.60 | $3,092.27 | $37,107.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,596.80 | $43,430.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Gilbert, AZ Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes focusing on food preparation tasks rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Gilbert, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $17.84 per hour or about $37,107.20 annually.
In Gilbert, Prep Cooks earn roughly the same as the national average, reflecting the competitive wage standards in this region of Arizona.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gilbert for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Area 1: $18.33 per hour
- Area 2: $19.29 per hour
Those living near Gilbert, especially in these areas, may find higher wages for similar Prep Cook roles.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Gilbert?
Several factors affect the salary potential of Prep Cooks in Gilbert:
- Experience: More skilled and experienced Prep Cooks typically earn higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in particular cuisines or kitchen techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catering companies tend to pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher pay due to demand.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Gilbert
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Gilbert involves several steps to gain the necessary skills and certifications:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs like the East Valley Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills including food preparation.
- Attend Community College Courses: Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge valuable for a Prep Cook.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning a Food Handler's Card is mandatory in Arizona for food service workers, ensuring safe food handling.
- Advanced Certifications: ServSafe Certification, a nationally recognized credential focusing on food safety, is often preferred by employers and can enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Gilbert
Several well-known establishments in Gilbert actively hire Prep Cooks, including:
- North Italia
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
- Zinburger
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Gilbert Work At
Prep Cooks in Gilbert commonly work in a variety of settings:
- Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work and competitive hourly wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These typically offer entry-level positions with opportunities to learn quickly but may pay less.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end restaurants and hotels might pay more due to the skill level required and the quality of food preparation.
- Catering Companies: Can offer varied experiences and sometimes higher pay depending on the clientele.
Salary differences relate largely to the prestige and scale of the establishment, with fine dining and catering usually providing higher earnings potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gilbert for Prep Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Prep Cook, here are some related careers to explore:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef roles, which share similar work environments and skills with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Gilbert
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Prep Cooks in Gilbert to ensure fair employment practices and compliance with state and federal rules.
- Information on state health regulations and certifications is available at the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- Employment and labor resources can be accessed through the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
- For federal labor laws and standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.