Prep Cook Salary in Newport News, VA
Prep Cooks in Newport News, VA, earn approximately $15.20 per hour, which translates to about $608.00 per week, $2,634.67 per month, and $31,616.00 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Newport News shows a positive growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for culinary support staff in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Newport News, VA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Newport News varies by experience level, with entry-level, mid-level, and top earners seeing different pay scales.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.27 | $490.80 | $2,120.40 | $25,449.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,634.67 | $31,616.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.83 | $753.20 | $3,262.67 | $39,166.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Newport News Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service or table interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Newport News vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.20 per hour, equating to approximately $31,616.00 per year.
Prep Cooks in Newport News earn about the same as the national average, reflecting a typical salary structure consistent with other regions across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport News for Prep Cooks
Nearby locations with potentially higher pay for Prep Cooks include:
- Kiln Creek: $20.00 per hour
- P.F. Chang's: $20.00 per hour
These areas offer higher hourly wages, possibly due to upscale establishments and resort-level dining options.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Newport News?
Experience and skill level often play a significant role in determining a Prep Cook's wage. More experienced Prep Cooks can handle a broader range of culinary tasks and work more efficiently.
The type of establishment also matters: high-end restaurants or resorts like those in Kiln Creek may offer higher pay compared to fast casual or budget eateries.
Certifications and culinary education can also positively impact salary, as employers value trained cooks who understand safety and food preparation techniques.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Newport News
Beginning a career as a Prep Cook involves a combination of education and practical experience.
Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Thomas Nelson Community College offer comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management, preparing entrants to excel in the field.
For hands-on learning, an Apprenticeship Program at Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort provides valuable experience in a high-end culinary environment.
To ensure compliance with food safety laws, earning certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification—required in Virginia—is important.
Additionally, obtaining the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes a professional level of competency and can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Newport News
Key employers in Newport News hiring Prep Cooks include:
- P.F. Chang's
- Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort
- Red Robin
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Newport News Work At
Prep Cooks typically find work in a variety of food service settings, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer steady work hours but moderate pay, suitable for entry-level cooks.
- Resorts and High-End Establishments: Such as Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort, tend to pay more due to the premium service expectations.
- Chain Restaurants: Like Red Robin and P.F. Chang's, which provide structured environments with potential advancement opportunities.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly impact potential earnings and opportunities for growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport News for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring careers similar to Prep Cook, consider roles such as:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, each requiring specialized cooking skills and offering different salary ranges within the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Newport News
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- You can visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on nationwide labor standards.
- For state-specific rules, see the Official State Website for Virginia.
- The Official City Website for Newport News, VA offers local employment regulations and resources.