Prep Cook Salary in Lakeland, FL
Prep Cooks in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.92 per hour, which translates to about $716.80 per week, $3,106.13 per month, and $37,273.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Lakeland, FL?
Prep Cook salaries in Lakeland vary based on experience and skill. Below is a breakdown to help understand the pay scale from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.22 | $648.80 | $2,799.47 | $33,577.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.92 | $716.80 | $3,106.13 | $37,273.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.79 | $791.60 | $3,407.87 | $40,963.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes, preparing ingredients and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. Their compensation comes primarily from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.49 per hour, resulting in approximately $34,299.20 annually.
By comparison, Prep Cooks in Lakeland earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $17.92 and yearly pay of $37,273.60, reflecting local labor market conditions and possible demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas to Lakeland offer varying wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Lakeland: $18.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $19.00 per hour
These areas slightly outpace the average pay in Lakeland proper, likely due to different employer types or cost of living factors.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Lakeland?
Various factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Lakeland, FL:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more experience or specialized culinary skills generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often provides better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining settings.
- Certifications and Training: Completing certifications such as food safety or culinary courses can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Night shifts or weekend work sometimes come with added pay incentives.
- Local Demand: Growing populations and tourism can increase the demand for food service workers, which can drive up wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Lakeland
Starting as a Prep Cook in Lakeland can be achieved by following some key steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs like the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality at Lake Technical College offer hands-on training accredited by the American Culinary Federation Foundation.
- Complete Apprenticeships: The Culinary Apprenticeship Program at Spectrum Health Lakeland combines paid work experience with classroom learning, granting certifications such as ServSafe and Department of Labor credentials.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Allergens demonstrate knowledge of crucial health and safety practices.
- Obtain Entry-Level Experience: Working in simple kitchen roles or volunteering can help build foundational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Lakeland
Some of the prominent employers looking for Prep Cooks in Lakeland include:
- Olive Garden
- Ford's Garage
- Compass Group
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Lakeland Work At
Prep Cooks find jobs across various types of establishments in Lakeland, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often a common starting point, offering moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These tend to have faster-paced environments with competitive pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These establishments may offer higher salary and benefits.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Sometimes provide steady employment with average wages.
The type of establishment can greatly affect the salary a Prep Cook receives, with upscale or specialized venues typically offering more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Prep Cooks
Prep Cooks interested in expanding their career opportunities might consider related roles in the hospitality industry.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which are common next steps or alternative roles within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Lakeland
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Prep Cooks working in Lakeland.
- For federal labor guidelines, wages, and rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific information about Florida's labor laws, minimum wage, and worker protections can be found at the official State of Florida website.