Prep Cook Salary in North-Charleston, SC
Prep Cooks in North-Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in North-Charleston is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this role annually.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in North-Charleston, SC?
The salary for a Prep Cook in North-Charleston can vary depending on experience, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in North-Charleston Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because their work is primarily in food preparation behind the scenes and not directly handling customers.
Prep Cook Salary in North-Charleston, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in North-Charleston earn slightly less per hour, at $13.90, and their annual salary is also a bit lower than the national average of $30,160.
Highest-Paying Areas Near North-Charleston, SC for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Charleston: $15.50 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks willing to commute to nearby cities such as Mount Pleasant may benefit from higher wages.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in North-Charleston, SC?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Prep Cook in North-Charleston:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks often command higher pay due to efficiency in kitchen tasks.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in knife skills, food safety knowledge, and culinary techniques can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels often earn more than those in fast food or casual dining.
- Location within the Region: Proximity to higher-paying cities like Mount Pleasant may provide better pay opportunities.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials increasing overall income.
How To Become a Prep Cook in North-Charleston, SC
Starting a career as a Prep Cook involves several key steps to improve employability and earning potential.
Formal education from institutions like the Culinary Institute of Charleston, which offers comprehensive culinary arts programs, including certificates and associate degrees, can provide a strong foundation.
Trident Technical College also provides culinary arts courses designed to prepare students for entry-level roles such as Prep Cook, focusing on practical kitchen skills.
Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification emphasizes food safety practices and is widely recognized in the food service industry.
The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification offers professional credentials that can enhance reputation and career advancement.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships or working in entry-level kitchen roles helps develop essential skills needed.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in North-Charleston, SC
Several prominent regional employers frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Drury Hotels Company
- Jim 'N Nick's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Prep Cooks in North-Charleston Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in diverse food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady opportunities but tend to pay moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Faster-paced environments with moderate to slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often offer higher wages and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues generally pay more, reflecting higher skill requirements.
Wage differences are influenced by the establishment’s prestige, clientele, and scale of food production.
Related Hospitality Jobs in North-Charleston, SC for Prep Cooks
If you are considering related roles in hospitality with similar skills, these options might interest you:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Chef de Partie positions, which involve related culinary skills and can offer varying salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in North-Charleston, SC
Prep Cooks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage their finances effectively.
- State-specific labor information can be found on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation's official site.
- For federal labor laws and employment statistics, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.