Prep Cook Salary in Hampton, VA
Prep Cooks in Hampton, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.15 per hour, which translates to about $646.00 per week, $2,799.33 per month, and $33,592.00 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Hampton is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary support roles in the area’s foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary for a Prep Cook in Hampton varies according to experience level, skill set, and the employer, but here’s a general breakdown across different stages of a Prep Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.44 | $537.60 | $2,325.87 | $27,907.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.15 | $646.00 | $2,799.33 | $33,592.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,470.13 | $41,641.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Hampton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is predominantly behind-the-scenes, supporting the kitchen operations rather than directly serving customers.
Prep Cook Salary in Hampton vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.40 per hour or $34,112 per year.
In Hampton, the hourly pay of $16.15 and annual pay of $33,592 is slightly below the national average, reflecting local market and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following salary rates for Prep Cooks:
- Mercury Central: $16.25 per hour
- Downtown Hampton: $15.00 per hour
Mercury Central stands out as a slightly higher-paying area compared to Downtown Hampton, which might influence where some Prep Cooks seek employment.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Hampton?
A Prep Cook’s salary in Hampton depends on several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with specialized skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Salaries tend to be better in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies than in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of culinary programs or food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timings: Working night or weekend shifts may come with added compensation.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Hampton
To become a Prep Cook in Hampton, you can follow several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Local programs like those at the Culinary Institute of Virginia in Norfolk or the Culinary Arts program at Thomas Nelson Community College provide foundational training and hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure safe food practices.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or in food service builds skills and helps you understand kitchen operations.
- Pursue Additional Credentials: Earning credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate competence and commitment in the culinary field.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Hampton
Several prominent employers in Hampton actively seek skilled Prep Cooks, including:
- Olive Garden
- Raising Cane's
- The Greene Turtle
- Bickford of Suffolk
- ASM Global
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Hampton Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often lower pay but entry-level opportunities to gain experience.
- Casual Dining: Moderate pay with exposure to diverse cuisines and kitchen operations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer better pay and stable hours due to larger kitchen operations.
- Catering Services: Can offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for skill development and sometimes higher wages.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Prep Cook’s salary and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to being a Prep Cook, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Cook positions, which share culinary skill sets and provide opportunities for growth within kitchen roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Hampton
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations relevant to Hampton, VA to protect their rights and manage finances efficiently.
- On the U.S. Department of Labor website you can learn about federal labor standards and regulations.
- The Commonwealth of Virginia's official website provides resources on state labor laws and employment services.
- For local ordinances and information, visit the City of Hampton’s official website.