Prep Cook Salary in Long Beach, CA
Prep Cooks in Long Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.86 per hour, which translates to about $754.40 per week, $3,269.07 per month, and $39,228.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Long Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook and rising opportunities for this position in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Long Beach, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Long Beach can vary based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown gives a general overview across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.75 | $710.00 | $3,073.33 | $36,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.86 | $754.40 | $3,269.07 | $39,228.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.63 | $905.20 | $3,917.07 | $47,070.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Long Beach Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities are primarily in the kitchen and not direct customer-facing. Their compensation mainly comes from wages or salary without tip income.
Prep Cook Salary in Long Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Long Beach earn noticeably more, at about $18.86 per hour and $39,228.80 annually.
This increase reflects the region’s higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary support staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Long Beach for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas where Prep Cooks tend to earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $22.00 per hour
- Belmont Shore: $21.00 per hour
These areas offer a premium on culinary labor, with salaries exceeding the Long Beach average.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Long Beach?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Long Beach:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks in upscale restaurants or hotels may earn more than those in casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like ServSafe Food Handler or a California Food Handler Card can increase job prospects and wages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might come with extra pay premiums.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Long Beach
Pursuing a career as a Prep Cook in Long Beach involves a few important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Long Beach City College Culinary Arts Program or the Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary education beneficial for Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are important to work legally and safely in food preparation.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Internships, apprenticeship, or entry-level kitchen positions help build skills and establish a culinary foundation.
- Develop Relevant Skills: Attention to detail, teamwork, and time management are crucial for advancing in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Long Beach
Some prominent employers in Long Beach looking for skilled Prep Cooks include:
- California Pizza Kitchen
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Yard House
- Outback Steakhouse
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Long Beach Work At
Prep Cooks in Long Beach typically work in a variety of food service establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide steady hours but may offer moderate salaries depending on the brand and location.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and offer opportunities for advancement within culinary departments.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to reward experienced Prep Cooks with better compensation reflecting the skill level required.
- Catering and Banquet Services: Can offer variable pay but often include benefits in larger companies.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Long Beach for Prep Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Prep Cook, several nearby hospitality job options can broaden your career possibilities.
These roles include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Prep Cook itself as related culinary positions involving food preparation duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Long Beach
It's essential for Prep Cooks to understand labor laws and tax obligations in California to protect their rights and maintain compliance.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services, wages, and benefits.
- For federal labor regulations, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.