Prep Cook Salary in Gulfport, MS
Prep Cooks in Gulfport, MS, in 2026, earn approximately $14.15 per hour, which translates to about $566.00 per week, $2,452.67 per month, and $29,432.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Gulfport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Gulfport, MS?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Gulfport can vary based on experience level and employer size, but here is a breakdown of typical pay rates.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.30 | $452.00 | $1,958.67 | $23,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.15 | $566.00 | $2,452.67 | $29,432.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.73 | $709.20 | $3,054.40 | $36,878.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Gulfport Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations. Their earnings come mainly from their hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Gulfport vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Gulfport earn slightly less by approximately
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gulfport for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer higher pay for Prep Cooks at notable establishments such as:
- Island View Casino Resort: $20.21 per hour
- Chili's: $19.81 per hour
These employers provide compensation well above the local average, making them attractive options for Prep Cooks seeking higher wages close to Gulfport.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Gulfport?
The salary for a Prep Cook in Gulfport is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more years working in kitchens or with advanced knife skills and food prep techniques usually earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks at casinos or higher-end restaurants often make more than those employed in fast casual or smaller cafes.
- Work Schedule: Evening, overnight, or weekend shifts may include shift differentials or bonuses that raise total pay.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing food safety certifications or culinary education can lead to better pay and advancement.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Gulfport
To become a Prep Cook in Gulfport, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Programs such as the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive instruction in food preparation techniques and kitchen management.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The William Carey University Hospitality Management Program provides knowledge in culinary operations and food service management that can be valuable.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification help demonstrate competency and may improve job prospects.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to build skills and pursue opportunities for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Gulfport
Some of the largest employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Gulfport include:
- Island View Casino Resort
- Chili's
- Cracker Barrel
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Gulfport Work At
Prep Cooks in Gulfport typically find work in various establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate wages with opportunities for tips in some front-of-house roles.
- Fast Casual Outlets: Usually provide steady work but with wages closer to the lower end of the pay scale.
- Casinos and Resort Kitchens: Often pay higher hourly rates and may offer benefits and bonuses.
- Catering and Event Companies: Sometimes provide variable hours but the chance to gain diverse experience.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect the salary a Prep Cook can earn in Gulfport.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gulfport for Prep Cooks
Individuals interested in Prep Cook roles might also consider similar careers in the hospitality sector:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions which share overlapping skills with Prep Cooks and offer different career paths within culinary arts.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Gulfport
Prep Cooks in Gulfport should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor regulations as well as tax requirements.
- Review federal labor laws on the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- Consult the Mississippi Department of Employment Security for state-specific employment laws and benefits.
- Visit the City of Gulfport official website for local employment and taxation details.