Prep Cook Salary in Murfreesboro, TN
Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $17.48 per hour, which translates to about $699.20 per week, $3,029.87 per month, and $36,358.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and industry expansion in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Murfreesboro, TN?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Murfreesboro can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.19 | $527.60 | $2,279.33 | $27,352.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.11 | $644.40 | $2,789.60 | $33,508.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.68 | $787.20 | $3,402.13 | $40,934.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work primarily involves behind-the-scenes food preparation without direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually come solely from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Murfreesboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro earn a higher hourly wage of about $17.48 per hour and an annual salary of $36,358.40.
This difference often reflects local economic factors, the cost of living, and industry demand specific to Murfreesboro.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Murfreesboro for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Prep Cooks, with some locations providing better compensation than others:
- Downtown Murfreesboro: $18.50 per hour
- Medical Center Parkway: $19.00 per hour
Prep Cooks working around Medical Center Parkway may find the highest wages among nearby locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Murfreesboro?
Several factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Murfreesboro, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks and those with advanced culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants, hospitals, or large catering companies may pay more than fast food or casual dining establishments.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications and formal culinary education can increase employability and salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might include wage differentials or bonuses.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic factors and competition for workers in the Murfreesboro area affect salary levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Murfreesboro
Becoming a Prep Cook in Murfreesboro involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Obtain Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Tennessee College of Applied Technology or Nashville State Community College, which provide foundations in culinary skills and kitchen management.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Secure certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to comply with food safety standards required by employers.
- Gain Experience: Start with entry-level kitchen roles to develop practical skills and advance.
- Consider Additional Certification: Achieving credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate proficiency and enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro
Several prominent employers in Murfreesboro actively hire Prep Cooks, including:
- First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
- Chili's
- Waffle House
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro Work At
Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro typically work in a range of establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These places often employ Prep Cooks for meal preparation, usually offering moderate wages and steady hours.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments may offer higher wages based on the skill level required and food quality standards.
- Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals, schools, and catering companies employ Prep Cooks, sometimes with added benefits but varied pay scales.
- Large Chain Restaurants: Employment here may lead to consistent schedules but sometimes lower wages compared to independent venues.
The type of establishment can significantly impact salary and growth opportunities for Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Murfreesboro for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to being a Prep Cook, consider exploring these related positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook roles—all of which involve essential culinary preparation tasks and share some salary and career progression similarities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro
Prep Cooks in Murfreesboro should be aware of both state and federal labor laws and tax requirements to navigate employment rights and responsibilities effectively.
- Information on Tennessee state labor laws and employment regulations can be found at the Official website of the State of Tennessee.
- Federal labor laws and workplace standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.