Prep Cook Salary in Lubbock, TX
Prep Cooks in Lubbock, 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 job demand for Prep Cooks in Lubbock is looking up with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in employment opportunities for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Lubbock, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Lubbock varies by experience level and employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Lubbock Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities are mostly behind the scenes, focused on food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Lubbock vs. National Average
The national average salary for a Prep Cook is about $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in Lubbock earn a bit less on average, making about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 per year. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lubbock for Prep Cooks
Within the Lubbock vicinity, some areas offer higher wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Lubbock: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks working in South Lubbock command the highest pay, substantially above other nearby areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Lubbock?
The salary of a Prep Cook can be influenced by several factors that affect earnings:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with enhanced knife skills and speed tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks in upscale restaurants or hotels often have higher salaries than those in casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts sometimes offer premium pay.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can boost a Prep Cook’s desirability and pay.
- Local Demand: Areas with higher demand for kitchen staff generally pay better.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Lubbock, TX
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Lubbock involves several recommended steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions such as South Plains College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training to build foundational culinary skills.
- Hospitality Management Education: Lubbock Community College offers Hospitality Management Programs that combine practical culinary and management knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Texas Food Handler Certification are often prerequisites and demonstrate essential knowledge.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working in fast casual or casual settings helps develop skills and build a resume.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Lubbock
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Prep Cooks in Lubbock include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Lubbock Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work in these types of establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: Typically offer steady work but often pay near the lower end of the scale.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide a blend of good wages and the opportunity to hone culinary skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can offer higher wages, especially in larger operations with diverse kitchen needs.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: These establishments may pay more for experienced cooks with refined preparation capabilities.
The choice of establishment often impacts both salary and career advancement possibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lubbock for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, here are a few related jobs to consider that involve complementary skills:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef – all of which involve food preparation and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Lubbock
Prep Cooks should be aware of federal, state, and local labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and understanding of their rights:
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Texas workers can access state-specific employment resources on the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- Local regulations and services information for Lubbock is available at the City of Lubbock's official website.