Prep Cook in Odessa, TX
Prep Cooks in Odessa, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.60 per hour, which translates to about $624.00 per week, $2,704.00 per month, and $32,448.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Odessa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating healthy job growth and increasing opportunities in the local culinary scene.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Odessa, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Odessa varies depending on experience, skills, and the employer, but here’s a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.93 | $477.20 | $2,064.53 | $24,806.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.60 | $624.00 | $2,704.00 | $32,448.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.40 | $816.00 | $3,520.00 | $42,432.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Odessa Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings generally come exclusively from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Odessa vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $15.60 per hour, which translates to approximately $32,448 per year.
Prep Cooks in Odessa earn roughly the same hourly and yearly average as the national figures. This parity suggests that Odessa's market for Prep Cooks aligns closely with national compensation standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Odessa for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- University Area: $16.80 per hour
Salaries in Downtown Odessa tend to be the highest among surrounding areas, providing an opportunity for better earnings close to the city center.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Odessa?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Odessa can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more experience or specialized culinary skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels may provide better compensation than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications such as the Food Handler's Permit or ServSafe Certification can improve job prospects and salary.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing overall earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Odessa
To become a Prep Cook in Odessa, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Education: Odessa College offers a Culinary Arts Program with hands-on training in cooking techniques and kitchen management, ideal for entry-level culinary jobs. Nearby Midland College also provides a robust Culinary Arts Program focusing on fundamental cooking skills and restaurant operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The Texas Food Handler's Permit and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are important credentials required by many employers for food preparation roles.
- Gain Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or in entry-level food preparation roles helps develop practical skills and facilitates career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Odessa
Several prominent employers in Odessa frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Odessa Marriott Hotel and Conference Center
- Chili's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Odessa Work At
Prep Cooks in Odessa typically work in a range of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours with moderate pay, suitable for entry-level cooks.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Generally require faster-paced work and may offer similar or slightly lower pay compared to casual dining.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments sometimes offer higher wages due to larger scale operations and event-based cooking.
- Institutional Kitchens (e.g., schools, hospitals): May offer stable employment with consistent hours but often have lower pay scales.
The type of establishment plays an important role in determining the salary range and benefits Prep Cooks can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Odessa for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to Prep Cook, here are some related roles you might consider:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Dishwasher, roles which share aspects of kitchen preparation and food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Odessa
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Prep Cooks working in Odessa to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Texas Workforce Commission provides information on state employment laws and workforce development at the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- Local ordinances and services can be found on the City of Odessa official website.