Prep Cook Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City, OK, 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 demand for Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry across the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Oklahoma City, OK?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Oklahoma City varies by experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings at different levels of experience.
| 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 Oklahoma City Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than interacting directly with customers. Their income is primarily based on wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Oklahoma City vs. National Average
Across the United States, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 and annually at $28,912. This difference can result from regional cost of living and local demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oklahoma City for Prep Cooks
Looking into surrounding areas, Prep Cook salaries show some variation:
- Edmond: $14.98 per hour
- Tulsa: $14.08 per hour
These nearby cities tend to offer slightly higher wages, with Edmond leading closely, making them attractive for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Oklahoma City?
There are several key factors that influence how much a Prep Cook can earn in Oklahoma City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills and knowledge of food safety can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering services often pay better than fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts may come with additional pay.
- Education and Certifications: Possessing culinary training or certifications can boost earning potential.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Oklahoma City
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Oklahoma City involves several actionable steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider programs like the Culinary Arts at Francis Tuttle Technology Center which offers hands-on training in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Obtain Formal Education: Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology provides an Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts with both practical and theoretical learning opportunities.
- Get Certified: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrate your knowledge of food safety practices, which employers highly value. The American Culinary Federation's Certified Culinarian (CC) is another credential showcasing fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or entry-level kitchen roles to build your skillset and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City
Some of the leading establishments currently hiring Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City include:
- Vast Restaurant & Bar
- The Monk Tavern
- Cheever’s Cafe
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in various types of food establishments, each influencing salary broadly:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide regular opportunities though wages may be modest given volume-focused operations.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often pay moderate wages with less complex preparation work involved.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These venues often offer higher wages due to the volume and quality requirements.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Pay higher salaries and may require more advanced culinary skills and precision.
The type of establishment significantly impacts pay, with more upscale or high-volume kitchens typically providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oklahoma City for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to being a Prep Cook, consider these options that share similar skills or culinary environments:
These careers include Fry Cook, Backwaiter, and Cook, roles which involve food preparation and kitchen responsibilities similar to those of a Prep Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Oklahoma City
Prep Cooks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure proper employment practices and compliance. Helpful resources include:
- Check the Oklahoma government website for statewide labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website which provides resources on workplace standards.