Prep Cook Salary in Killeen, TX
Prep Cooks in Killeen, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Killeen is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy expansion in food service and hospitality industries in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Killeen varies depending on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Killeen Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips because their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting kitchen staff, without direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Killeen earn slightly less on average at $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually.
This difference can be influenced by cost of living and local market demand in Killeen.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Prep Cooks
Salary levels for Prep Cooks can vary locally:
- Downtown Killeen: $15.50 per hour
- West Killeen: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks working in West Killeen typically earn higher wages compared to those in Downtown Killeen.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Killeen?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook might earn in Killeen:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks usually earn higher wages due to increased efficiency and skill.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of food safety and culinary techniques can increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels can offer better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with higher pay rates or bonuses.
- Local Demand: Higher demand areas like West Killeen typically offer increased wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Killeen
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Killeen involves gaining relevant education and experience.
Local culinary programs such as the Central Texas College Culinary Arts Program in Killeen provide hands-on training ideal for entering the food service industry.
Nearby, the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Austin, Texas, offers comprehensive culinary arts programs focusing on both classical and modern cooking techniques.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Texas Food Handler Certificate is often required and valued by employers for demonstrating food safety knowledge.
Gaining experience through internships or entry-level kitchen roles also helps build skills necessary for advancement as a Prep Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Killeen
Leading employers that frequently hire Prep Cooks in Killeen include:
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Pluckers
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Killeen Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in various types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual and Chain Restaurants: These often provide steady employment but with moderate wage levels.
- Fast Casual Venues: May offer slightly higher wages due to faster-paced environments.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Higher-end establishments tend to offer better salaries and benefits.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as hospitals or schools, which can provide stable work but sometimes lower pay.
The type of establishment impacts both pay and opportunities for advancement for Prep Cooks in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Prep Cooks
For those interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these related positions:
This includes Cook, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook roles, which share similar skills and working environments with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Killeen
Prep Cooks should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations relevant to working in Killeen, TX.
- For federal labor laws visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides resources specific to employment laws and workforce development in Texas.
- Local regulations and community resources can be found at the City of Killeen official website.