Prep Cook Salary in High Point, NC
Prep Cooks in High Point, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.31 per hour, which translates to about $532.40 per week, $2,307.07 per month, and $27,684.80 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in High Point is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating positive prospects and an expanding need for culinary support staff in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in High Point, NC?
The salary of a Prep Cook in High Point can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is an overview of the earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.72 | $468.80 | $2,030.93 | $24,370.56 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.31 | $532.40 | $2,307.07 | $27,684.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,469.47 | $41,641.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in High Point Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their income typically comes entirely from wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in High Point vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.68 per hour or approximately $34,694.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in High Point earn less, at around $13.31 per hour and $27,684.80 annually.
This difference is often due to regional cost of living, employer size, and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near High Point for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly better pay for Prep Cooks as follows:
- Downtown High Point: $14.50 per hour
- North High Point: $15.00 per hour
These areas may provide increased earning opportunities relative to High Point's average, likely due to different types of establishments or higher living costs.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in High Point?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in High Point, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with better knife skills and food knowledge typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels tend to pay higher than fast food or casual dining.
- Certification and Training: Food safety certifications or formal culinary training can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher pay due to their less desirable hours.
- Local Market Demand: Growing hospitality sectors in High Point can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Prep Cook in High Point
To start a career as a Prep Cook, consider the following steps:
- Join Culinary Organizations: The Culinary Arts Club at High Point University provides hands-on cooking experience and skill development.
- Seek Formal Education: Programs like the Hospitality Management Program at High Point University can give knowledge of the broader hospitality field.
- Obtain Certifications: Credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation validate food safety and culinary skills.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants can build practical kitchen skills necessary for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in High Point
Several well-known employers are currently hiring Prep Cooks in High Point, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- McDonald's
- P.F. Chang's
- Atrium Health
Establishments That Prep Cooks in High Point Work At
Prep Cooks in High Point commonly work in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often fast-paced with opportunities for skill development but sometimes lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide higher pay and benefits due to upscale clientele and larger kitchen operations.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: These can offer seasonal work with varying pay scales depending on event frequency.
The nature of the establishment significantly impacts salary due to differences in clientele, kitchen demands, and business size.
Related Hospitality Jobs in High Point for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, consider these similar hospitality careers:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, each requiring overlapping skill sets and providing alternative career pathways in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in High Point
Prep Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and taxation to ensure working conditions and taxes are managed properly.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor provides state-specific details on wages, workplace safety, and rights.
- For local regulations and services, visit the City of High Point official website.