Prep Cook Salary in Glendale, AZ
Prep Cooks in Glendale, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.41 per hour, which equates to about $736.40 per week, $3,191.07 per month, and $38,292.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Glendale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Glendale, AZ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Glendale depends greatly on experience and skill level. Here's an overview of potential earnings broken down by experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.25 | $610.00 | $2,636.67 | $31,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.84 | $713.60 | $3,082.13 | $37,107.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.88 | $835.20 | $3,603.20 | $43,382.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Glendale Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing ingredients rather than directly serving customers. Their income is largely based on their wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Glendale, AZ vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $17.84 per hour, which is equivalent to roughly $37,107.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Glendale earn a slightly higher hourly wage at $18.41 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $38,292.80, reflecting local economic conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Glendale for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher Prep Cook salaries include:
- Arrowhead Ranch: $19.50 per hour
- Westgate Entertainment District: $19.00 per hour
These areas offer a modest premium in wages which may be attractive for those willing to commute or relocate close to Glendale.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Glendale?
Many factors impact the salary level of a Prep Cook in Glendale, such as:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined knife skills and knowledge of food prep techniques earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens often pay higher compared to fast food outlets or casual dining.
- Location Within Glendale: Certain neighborhoods or districts with higher living costs tend to offer better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Prep Cooks working evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Professional culinary education and food safety certifications can boost earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Glendale
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in Glendale, the following steps can be helpful:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Programs like the Glendale Community College Culinary Arts Program or Arizona Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training in kitchen skills and management.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Maricopa County Food Handler's Card and ServSafe Certification are essential to demonstrate understanding of food safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen assistant or internship can provide hands-on experience.
- Develop Knife Skills and Efficiency: Mastering the basics of prep work and food handling increases employability.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Glendale
Some of the prominent employers seeking Prep Cooks in Glendale include:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Glencroft Center for Modern Aging
- Oregano's
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Glendale Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work in a wide variety of culinary establishments, such as:
- Fast Casual and Casual Dining: These venues often provide entry points with moderate pay and opportunities for growth.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to offer higher wages reflecting the demand for superior cooking preparation skills.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: May offer consistent work with additional chances to develop skills and advance.
- Chain Restaurants: Usually provide standardized pay scales but with benefits and training programs.
The type of establishment strongly influences wages due to differences in skill demands, customer expectations, and business volume.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Glendale for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles beside Prep Cook, consider these related hospitality jobs that share skills and industry focus:
These include the Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, offering alternative or complementary career pathways within food preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Glendale
Prep Cooks must be aware of several regulations and resources applicable in Glendale, AZ:
- Information on state health regulations and certifications can be accessed from the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- Employment and labor resources, including worker rights and benefits, are found at the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
- Local government information and services specific to Glendale and Maricopa County are available at the Maricopa County Official Website.