Prep Cook in Glendale, CA
Prep Cooks in Glendale, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.00 per hour, which translates to about $760.00 per week, $3,293.33 per month, and $39,520.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Glendale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food preparation and hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Glendale, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Glendale varies depending on experience and skill, but here is a breakdown 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) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $48,960.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Glendale Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as they primarily work behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting kitchen operations, with limited direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Glendale, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Glendale earn significantly more, at $19.00 per hour and $39,520.00 annually, reflecting higher demand and living costs in the Glendale area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Glendale for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Glendale: $21.00 per hour
- Montrose: $20.50 per hour
These nearby neighborhoods offer slightly increased wages compared to Glendale, likely due to local market conditions and employer profiles.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Glendale?
Several factors influence a Prep Cook’s salary in Glendale:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks who are efficient and knowledgeable in kitchen operations tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or catering companies often results in better pay than casual or fast food locations.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or California Food Handler Card can increase employability and potential salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Prep Cooks working flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, may receive shift differentials or overtime.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Glendale
Becoming a Prep Cook in Glendale involves several practical steps:
- Gain Culinary Training: Enroll in culinary arts programs such as Glendale Community College Culinary Arts Program or Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program to build foundational skills.
- Get Certified in Food Safety: Obtain certifications like the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the California Food Handler Card, which are often mandatory for food service roles.
- Develop Kitchen Experience: Start with entry-level positions in kitchens to learn food preparation and sanitation practices.
- Network with Local Employers: Engage with restaurants and catering establishments in Glendale to find job opportunities and apprenticeships.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Glendale
Several notable employers in Glendale actively seek skilled Prep Cooks, including:
- Din Tai Fung
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Chipotle
- John Sparr Tavern
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Glendale Work At
Prep Cooks in Glendale typically work in a variety of food service settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work with moderate pay reflecting the casual dining atmosphere.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often fast-paced kitchens where Prep Cooks must work efficiently but wages may be lower compared to other settings.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Require high-quality food prep skills and generally offer better compensation and growth opportunities.
- Catering and Event Services: Demand flexibility and excellent preparation skills, often leading to varied pay scales based on the event size and type.
The salary variance depends largely on the establishment’s prestige, customer base, and operational scale, with fine dining typically rewarding higher wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Glendale for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in hospitality roles similar to Prep Cook, consider positions such as:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter, which involve related culinary responsibilities and offer alternative pathways in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Glendale
Prep Cooks must be aware of key labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- California-specific workplace regulations and labor laws are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For city-specific workplace rules and employment resources, visit the Glendale official website.