Prep Cook in Knoxville, TN
Prep Cooks in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.68 per hour, which translates to about $587.20 per week, $2,544.53 per month, and $30,534.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, highlighting a positive outlook for this important culinary role in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Knoxville varies depending on experience, but generally falls within the range outlined below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.91 | $476.40 | $2,058.40 | $24,700.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.68 | $587.20 | $2,544.53 | $30,534.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.10 | $724.00 | $3,135.33 | $37,648.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because they typically work behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service, so their income is primarily wage-based.
Prep Cook Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.68 per hour, translating to about $34,694.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Knoxville earn slightly less at about $14.68 per hour and $30,534.40 annually. This difference reflects local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Knoxville: $17.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $16.80 per hour
If you're willing to commute, working in Downtown or West Knoxville might provide better pay compared to other parts of the city.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several factors impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Knoxville:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with better knife skills or knowledge of food safety standards can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels tend to earn more than those in fast food or casual dining settings.
- Shift and Hours: Shifts during evenings or weekends may offer higher pay or overtime opportunities.
- Certifications: Food safety or culinary certifications may lead to better pay and job security.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with higher demand for culinary workers often have higher salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Knoxville
To start and advance a career as a Prep Cook in Knoxville, consider the following steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in culinary programs like the Pellissippi State Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Tennessee Culinary Institute for hands-on cooking training.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is widely recognized and essential for working safely in kitchens.
- Alcohol Service Permits: If working in venues serving alcohol, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit may be required.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen positions or internships to build practical skills.
- Network Locally: Connect with local chefs and restaurant owners to learn about open positions and grow professionally.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Knoxville
Some prominent employers looking for skilled Prep Cooks in Knoxville include:
- McAlister's Deli
- Chili's
- Food City
- Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
- Parkwest Medical Center (Morrison Healthcare)
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Knoxville Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across various establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These places often offer moderate wages and fast-paced environments.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Positions here often come with better pay and benefits.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and long-term care facilities may hire Prep Cooks for food preparation, usually with stable schedules.
- Corporate Cafeterias: These often pay competitive wages and may provide advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary levels, with upscale venues generally offering higher wages due to expectations of quality and efficiency.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Prep Cook
If you're interested in career options related to Prep Cook, here are a few closely related roles worth considering.
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Cook positions, which often require similar skills and experience.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cook in Knoxville
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws as well as tax obligations.
- Visit the official Tennessee government website for information on state labor regulations, including minimum wage and workplace standards.
- For federal labor laws, check out the U.S. Department of Labor website, offering comprehensive resources on employment rights and taxes.