Prep Cook Salary in Miami-Gardens, FL
Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.04 per hour, which translates to about $641.60 per week, $2,780.27 per month, and $33,363.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook in the culinary and hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Miami-Gardens, FL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Miami-Gardens varies depending on experience and specific employers. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.73 | $709.20 | $3,062.40 | $36,790.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,730.13 | $44,825.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities are primarily in the kitchen behind the scenes. Their compensation mostly comes through regular wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Miami-Gardens vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.04 per hour, which equates to roughly $33,363.20 annually.
Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens earn very close to the national average, with hourly and yearly wages aligning closely to nationwide figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Miami-Gardens for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Miami: $17.73 per hour
- Fort Lauderdale: $17.66 per hour
Both Miami and Fort Lauderdale present opportunities with somewhat higher pay rates compared to Miami-Gardens, potentially attracting commuters seeking better wages.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Miami-Gardens?
Several key factors influence Prep Cooks' salaries in Miami-Gardens:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to earn higher wages as their efficiency and skills improve.
- Skill Set: Mastery in various culinary techniques can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or high-volume restaurants may offer better compensation than fast-food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Relevant culinary certifications or food safety credentials can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with differential pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Miami-Gardens
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Miami-Gardens can be supported by the following steps:
- Education Programs: Attend specialized institutions such as Miami Norland Senior High School Academy of Hospitality and Tourism, which offer foundational hospitality and culinary skills.
- Culinary Courses: Participate in programs like Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Culinary Courses, focusing on ingredients and cooking techniques relevant to the locale.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is widely recognized and often required.
- Culinary Certification: Consider attaining the Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation to validate your skills and boost career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens
Several prominent employers in Miami-Gardens hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Calder Casino
- Sodexo
- Colonial Assisted Living
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across a variety of food service settings, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments often have high-volume food preparation demands and typically pay average wages.
- Hotels and Casinos: Larger-scale kitchens may offer higher pay and benefits due to the complexity and volume of food service.
- Assisted Living Facilities: Working here may offer stable schedules but sometimes more moderate compensation.
- Catering and Event Services: This category can offer variable pay based on event sizes and frequency.
The type and level of establishment can significantly impact salary, with upscale and high-volume kitchens usually offering better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Miami-Gardens for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in careers similar to being a Prep Cook, here are several related roles you might consider exploring:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, sharing similar kitchen responsibilities and offering various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Miami-Gardens
Prep Cooks should be familiar with federal and state labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific Florida state labor regulations, visit the official State of Florida website.