Prep Cook Salary in Pasadena, CA
Prep Cooks in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which translates to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Pasadena is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary field within the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Pasadena varies with experience and employer type. Here’s a breakdown across different experience levels to give you a better idea.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.80 | $752.00 | $3,258.67 | $39,104.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.15 | $886.00 | $3,832.67 | $45,992.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work takes place behind the scenes in the kitchen, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically based solely on wages or salary without additional tip income.
Prep Cook Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.60 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,528 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Pasadena earn a higher wage of approximately $18.80 per hour and $39,104 annually.
This wage premium is likely due to Pasadena’s higher living costs and demand for skilled kitchen staff in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Prep Cook salaries differ slightly:
- Old Pasadena: $20.00 per hour
- South Lake Avenue: $19.50 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Old Pasadena can expect to earn a higher hourly wage compared to other local neighborhoods, reflecting the area's culinary market and cost of living.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Pasadena?
A variety of factors contribute to the salary a Prep Cook can earn in Pasadena:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with strong knife skills and familiarity with diverse cuisines typically command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally offers higher wages versus smaller cafes or fast-food venues.
- Certifications: Possessing food safety certifications or culinary training enhances employability and pay potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might include shift differentials that boost hourly earnings.
- Local Economy and Demand: Pasadena's culinary scene and labor market conditions impact salaries and job availability.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Pasadena
Launching a career as a Prep Cook in Pasadena involves several practical steps:
- Training Programs: Enroll in programs like the Pasadena City College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena for foundational culinary skills and hands-on training.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtain essential certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the California Food Handler Card, both often required for employment in food service.
- Gain Experience: Work in entry-level kitchen roles or internships to develop practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Networking: Connect with local chefs and culinary professionals to explore job opportunities and mentorship.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Pasadena
Several well-known establishments in Pasadena frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Urban Plates
- Panini Kabob Grill
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Pasadena Work At
Prep Cooks in Pasadena are typically employed in a variety of dining establishments, each affecting pay and working conditions:
- Casual Restaurants: Often offer dynamic work environments but may have moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: Provide steady work with some opportunities for advancement; pay can be competitive depending on the chain.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay higher wages and demand greater skill levels and discipline from kitchen staff.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These establishments can offer good pay and benefits depending on their scale and prestige.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, work hours, and advancement potential for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in roles similar to a Prep Cook, consider exploring related culinary positions that utilize similar skills and offer alternative career paths.
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Cook roles, each providing a distinct yet related culinary environment and salary range.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Pasadena
Understanding local labor laws and tax obligations is important for Prep Cooks working in Pasadena: