Prep Cook Salary in Irving, TX
Prep Cooks in Irving, TX, 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 Irving is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expansion opportunities within the culinary and hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Irving, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Irving varies widely based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of the typical earnings across various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.04 | $481.60 | $2,082.93 | $25,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,627.73 | $31,532.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.10 | $764.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,728.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Irving Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because they primarily work behind the scenes preparing ingredients rather than serving customers directly. Their compensation usually comes solely from their salary or hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Irving vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of approximately $15.95 per hour, which amounts to around $33,176 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Irving earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $15.16 per hour and an annual salary of about $31,532.80. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irving for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher salaries for Prep Cooks, such as:
- Las Colinas: $16.50 per hour
- Valley Ranch: $17.00 per hour
Considering these rates, commuting to these locations might provide better pay opportunities than Irving itself.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Irving?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Irving:
- Experience Level: Prep Cooks with more years of kitchen experience typically command higher wages.
- Skill Set: Mastery of knife skills, knowledge of food safety, and speed in prep work can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and upscale hotels tend to pay higher wages compared to fast-food outlets or casual dining.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as food handler’s permits or ServSafe can improve employability and salary.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials increasing pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Irving
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Irving involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete a Culinary Arts Program: Attend programs like the El Centro College Culinary Arts Program or Collin College Culinary Arts Program to gain foundational cooking and kitchen skills.
- Obtain Food Handler’s Certification: This is required by the state of Texas and ensures knowledge of safe food preparation practices.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized credential covers important food safety and hygiene concepts.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in entry-level kitchen roles or internships to develop hands-on expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Irving
Prep Cooks in Irving can find job opportunities at various well-known restaurant chains, including:
- Benihana
- Pappasito's Cantina
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Irving Work At
Prep Cooks typically work across diverse culinary settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady opportunities but usually offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often require efficiency and may pay entry-level wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can provide higher wages and benefits due to volume and upscale clientele.
The nature of the establishment significantly impacts salary, with upscale or high-volume kitchens generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irving for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to being a Prep Cook, you might also explore the following positions:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all closely related roles within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Irving
Being informed about labor laws and tax regulations is important for Prep Cooks in Irving to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the official Texas government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, minimum wage, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor's website.