Prep Cook Salary in Kailua, HI
Prep Cooks in Kailua, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.95 per hour, which translates to about $798.00 per week, $3,458.00 per month, and $41,496.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Kailua is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities within the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Kailua, HI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Kailua varies by experience level and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings for different stages of a Prep Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.59 | $663.60 | $2,865.20 | $34,363.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.95 | $798.00 | $3,458.00 | $41,496.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.99 | $959.60 | $4,142.93 | $49,899.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Kailua Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Kailua vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks make about $16.59 per hour, which equals roughly $34,507.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Kailua earn more, at approximately $19.95 per hour and $41,496 annually. This higher pay reflects the cost of living and demand in Kailua, HI.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kailua for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Prep Cooks:
- Kailua-Kona: $20.16 per hour
- Honolulu: $19.95 per hour
Kailua-Kona offers the highest nearby wages, which could be appealing for Prep Cooks seeking better pay within the region.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Kailua?
Many factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Kailua:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks generally command higher wages due to their refined skills and efficiency in the kitchen.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of specific cuisines, ingredient preparation techniques, or speed can boost salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or resorts may pay more than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as food safety can increase employability and earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts might provide higher pay rates.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Kailua
Here are some helpful steps to start your career as a Prep Cook in Kailua:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Kapi'olani Community College and the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable training and skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Hawaii State Food Handler's Permit are often required by employers and enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships allow you to build foundational skills in a kitchen environment.
- Network with Local Food Service Industry: Connections within Kailua's culinary scene can open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Kailua
Some of the prominent employers in Kailua looking for Prep Cooks include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Kailua Work At
Prep Cooks in Kailua typically find work in various establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Often have consistent hours but relatively lower pay.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: May offer better wages and potential for tips for other roles but generally moderate pay for Prep Cooks.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to pay higher salaries and may provide benefits due to the upscale customer base.
- Catering and Event Services: Often seasonal work which can affect salary consistency.
The type of establishment has a strong influence on the pay scale and growth opportunities available to Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kailua for Prep Cooks
If you're considering similar careers, here are some roles closely related to Prep Cook that might interest you:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all involving related culinary skills and offering various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Kailua
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Prep Cooks working in Kailua.
- Check federal labor regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations provides local employment rules and support.
- For city-specific information, visit the City and County of Honolulu official website.