Prep Cook Salary in Hesperia, CA
Prep Cooks in Hesperia, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Hesperia is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and steady opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Hesperia, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Hesperia can vary based on experience and other factors. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Hesperia Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are mostly limited to their hourly wage or salary without additional tipping income.
Prep Cook Salary in Hesperia vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Hesperia earn a higher hourly wage and annual salary, reflecting regional market conditions and local cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hesperia for Prep Cooks
When considering nearby locations, pay rates for Prep Cooks vary slightly:
- The Mesa: $17.50 per hour
- Hesperia City Center District: $18.00 per hour
Those working in the Hesperia City Center District can expect marginally higher pay compared to other nearby areas, highlighting local differences within commuting distance.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Hesperia?
Several factors impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Hesperia, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who master advanced food prep techniques often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or specialized catering companies usually offers better compensation compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or a California Food Handler Card can improve employability and pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Positions with night or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials increasing overall earnings.
- Local Demand: The growth rate of kitchen positions in the area and competition among kitchens can raise wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Hesperia
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in Hesperia, consider these steps:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Programs at Victor Valley College and San Bernardino Valley College provide valuable hands-on training and kitchen knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are essential for compliance with health regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen roles such as kitchen assistant or line cook can help build relevant experience.
- Network and Apply Locally: Connecting with local restaurants and culinary professionals can open doors to opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Hesperia
Leading employers in Hesperia hiring Prep Cooks include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- CEC Entertainment, LLC
- Denco Family
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Hesperia Work At
Prep Cooks in Hesperia typically work across various types of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer consistent hours but generally moderate pay.
- Full-Service and Upscale Restaurants: Higher pay and opportunities for advancement can be found in these settings.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Often provide higher wages and benefits but may require additional responsibilities.
- Institutional Food Services: Such as hospitals and schools, providing stable employment with variable wages.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary, with upscale restaurants and hotels often offering better compensation and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hesperia for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring careers related to being a Prep Cook, consider these options:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Porter positions, which share skills in food preparation and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Hesperia
Prep Cooks in Hesperia should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance with employment standards.
- You can review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific laws, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.