Prep Cook Salary in Huntington, WV
Prep Cooks in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $15.16 per hour, which translates to about $606.40 per week, $2,627.73 per month, and $31,532.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Huntington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role locally.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Huntington, WV, varies depending on experience and other factors. Here is a breakdown of pay according to experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,627.73 | $31,532.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Huntington Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work mostly behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting the culinary team. Their earnings come primarily from their regular wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Huntington earn slightly more, at about $15.16 per hour and $31,532.80 annually, reflecting favorable local wages relative to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Southeast Hills: $16.50 per hour
- Southside: $17.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide opportunities for Prep Cooks to earn above the Huntington average, making them attractive employment locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Huntington?
Several factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Huntington, WV:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Prep Cooks typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels often comes with better pay compared to casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can enhance employability and salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Certain shifts, such as late nights or weekends, may offer shift differentials increasing earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Huntington
Entering the role of a Prep Cook in Huntington involves a few important steps:
- Education: Consider enrolling in programs like the Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts.
- High School Programs: The Huntington High School ProStart Program provides culinary and restaurant management training for students.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is crucial for food safety compliance.
- Professional Development: Pursuing American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can help improve skills and career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Huntington
Prominent establishments in Huntington currently hiring Prep Cooks include:
- Black Sheep Burrito & Brews
- Bahnhof WVrsthaus & Biergarten
- Le Bistro
- 21 at the Frederick
- The Cellar Door
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Huntington Work At
Prep Cooks in Huntington typically find employment in various types of foodservice settings such as casual dining, fast casual, and fine dining restaurants.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential. Prep Cooks in fine dining restaurants or hotels tend to earn higher wages compared to those in fast casual or quick-service venues due to the complexity of dishes and skill requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Prep Cooks
If you're considering positions similar to Prep Cook, here are a few related roles worth exploring that offer parallel skills and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Huntington
To work confidently as a Prep Cook, understanding relevant labor laws and tax obligations is essential.
- West Virginia state labor rules and other resources can be found at the West Virginia Department of Labor.
- Information on federal labor laws is available through the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For localized employment resources and city regulations, visit the City of Huntington official website.