Prep Cook Salary in Honolulu, HI
Prep Cooks in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.95 per hour, equating to around $798.00 per week, $3,458.00 per month, and $41,496.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Honolulu, HI?
Salary for a Prep Cook in Honolulu varies by experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of estimated earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.59 | $663.60 | $2,859.60 | $34,307.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.95 | $798.00 | $3,458.00 | $41,496.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.99 | $959.60 | $4,153.27 | $49,899.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting chefs. Their earnings mostly comprise hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn on average about $16.59 per hour or roughly $34,507.20 annually.
In Honolulu, Prep Cooks earn higher than the national average, with an average hourly pay of $19.95 and annual pay of $41,496.00. This difference reflects the local cost of living and hospitality demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Prep Cooks
Some of the nearby areas offering higher pay for Prep Cooks include:
- Kapolei: $24.18 per hour
- Kihei: $23.60 per hour
Working in these areas could lead to significantly higher earnings compared to Honolulu proper.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Honolulu:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced culinary skills or multitasking abilities tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually offer higher wages than casual or fast-food venues.
- Work Schedule and Availability: Those available for night shifts or weekends may have increased earning potential.
- Certifications and Training: Holding relevant certifications can boost employability and salary.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Honolulu
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in Honolulu involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience.
- Enroll in culinary programs such as the Culinary Institute of the Pacific or the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program which offer comprehensive training focusing on cooking techniques and local cuisine.
- Obtain essential food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit, required for food service roles in Hawaii.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level kitchen roles to develop ingredient preparation and kitchen organization skills.
- Build a network in local culinary circles to improve job opportunities and growth potential.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Honolulu
Some prominent employers in Honolulu seeking Prep Cook talent include:
- Hard Rock International
- La Tour Cafe
- Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Honolulu Work At
Prep Cooks in Honolulu often find work in a variety of food service settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Common and steady employers, often providing standard wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer higher hourly rates for fast-paced environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically pay more due to the quality of service expected.
- Catering and Events: Seasonal work that can sometimes offer premiums.
The type of establishment influences pay, with higher-end venues generally offering better compensation and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring careers similar to Prep Cook, consider these related positions with comparable skills and responsibilities:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, which share kitchen responsibilities and culinary skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Honolulu
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is vital for Prep Cooks in Honolulu to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- You can learn about federal labor standards at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides state-specific labor rules and worker protections.
- The City and County of Honolulu official website offers additional resources on local employment regulations and services.