Prep Cook Salary in Meridian, ID
Prep Cooks in Meridian, ID, in 2026, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Meridian is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for culinary support roles as the food service industry expands in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Meridian, ID?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Meridian varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of average earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $40,480.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Meridian Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because their role is mainly behind the scenes, preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen staff, rather than interacting directly with customers.
Prep Cook Salary in Meridian, ID vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $17.00 per hour, which amounts to about $35,360.00 per year.
The salary for Prep Cooks in Meridian aligns closely with the national average, reflecting the competitive wages in this region based on local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Meridian for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Meridian: $18.00 per hour
- Northwest Meridian: $17.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Meridian may provide slightly increased earnings compared to other local areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Meridian?
Multiple factors impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Meridian:
- Experience and Skill Level: Higher experience or specialized culinary skills can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels often offers better pay than fast-food or casual dining establishments.
- Location Within Meridian: Specific neighborhoods such as Downtown Meridian may offer slightly higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Holding relevant food safety certifications or culinary training can improve salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Overtime or night shifts may include pay differentials.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Meridian, ID
To pursue a role as a Prep Cook in Meridian, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho provide comprehensive training in essential culinary skills.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Education: Boise State University’s Hospitality Management Program offers courses relevant to kitchen operations and culinary arts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Idaho Food Safety and Sanitation Certification is crucial to meet health standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or internships helps build skills and gain industry exposure.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Meridian
Several notable employers in Meridian seeking skilled Prep Cooks include:
- The Village at Meridian
- Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery
- Goodwood Barbecue Company
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Meridian Work At
Prep Cooks in Meridian typically find employment in a variety of food service settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide solid entry-level opportunities with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Positions here may offer slightly lower salaries but with faster-paced work environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and may offer additional benefits due to the scale and expectations of service.
- Specialty and Fine Dining Establishments: May provide higher salaries based on skill demands and quality standards.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the earnings and advancement opportunities for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Meridian for Prep Cooks
Those interested in Prep Cook roles may also consider related hospitality positions that share similar skills and career paths.
These positions include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Cook roles, all of which involve food preparation and kitchen duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Meridian
Prep Cooks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper employment conditions.
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for overarching guidelines on wages and workplace rights.
- Visit the State of Idaho's official labor department website to understand state-specific regulations.
- Check the Official website of the City of Meridian for local ordinances and employment resources.