Prep Cook in Nashville, TN
Prep Cooks in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $18.53 per hour, which amounts to about $741.20 per week, $3,211.87 per month, and $38,542.40 per year.
The job outlook for Prep Cooks is positive, with a steady growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary support professionals in Nashville’s thriving food industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary for a Prep Cook in Nashville varies largely based on experience, skill level, and type of establishment. Here's a breakdown by experience tier.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.95 | $598.00 | $2,580.67 | $31,016.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.53 | $741.20 | $3,211.87 | $38,542.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.96 | $918.40 | $3,963.73 | $47,756.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Nashville Earn Tips?
Typically, Prep Cooks do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes, preparing ingredients and supporting the kitchen team rather than customer-facing roles. Their compensation is usually limited to wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Nashville, TN vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks make on average about $16.85 per hour, amounting to approximately $35,048 per year.
Prep Cooks in Nashville earn slightly higher than the national average, both hourly and yearly, with an hourly wage of about $18.53 and a yearly salary of around $38,542.40. This increase reflects Nashville’s growing culinary industry and the demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas to Nashville also offer competitive pay for Prep Cooks:
- Franklin: $17.90 per hour
- Goodlettsville: $17.39 per hour
While these nearby towns offer slightly lower hourly wages compared to Nashville itself, they still provide ample opportunity for culinary workers.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors influence how much a Prep Cook can earn in Nashville:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to command higher wages due to improved efficiency and culinary knowledge.
- Skill Set: Specific skills such as knife skills, knowledge of food safety, and ability to handle various cuisines add value.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering firms often pay more than casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Certifications: Possessing relevant food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Types: Working night or early morning shifts might include shift differentials that elevate pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Nashville
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Nashville involves key steps to build foundational culinary skills:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like those at Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville provide comprehensive training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices and are often required by employers.
- Earn Industry Credentials: Entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can validate skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working entry-level kitchen jobs or internships can build hands-on skills necessary for success.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Nashville
Many popular restaurants and chains in Nashville frequently seek skilled Prep Cooks, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- True Food Kitchen
- J. Alexander's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Nashville Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work in a variety of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, hotels, and catering companies.
The type of establishment affects salary: upscale hotels and fine casual restaurants tend to offer higher compensation than quick-service or chain operations.
In addition to pay differences, the environment influences specialization opportunities and career advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in related career paths, you might consider roles that require similar skills and offer alternatives or advancement opportunities in the culinary field.
These positions include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and also Prep Cook itself, which represent various stages and specializations in kitchen work.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Nashville
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance with employment rights.
- For state-specific labor laws, the official Tennessee government website is a key resource.
- Federal regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor's website, which covers workplace standards and wage laws.