Prep Cook Salary in Pomona, CA
Prep Cooks in Pomona, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.44 per hour, which translates to about $737.60 per week, $3,196.27 per month, and $38,355.20 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in Pomona is looking up with a positive growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for food preparation professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Pomona, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Pomona varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,067.20 | $36,806.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.42 | $816.80 | $3,520.53 | $42,473.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.48 | $939.20 | $4,066.13 | $48,838.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Pomona Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation, without direct customer interaction. Their income is mostly derived from their base salary or hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Pomona, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.63 per hour, which equals about $32,510.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Pomona earn a higher hourly wage of $18.44 and a yearly salary of around $38,355.20. This reflects the local economic conditions and demand for culinary staff in the Pomona area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offering varied compensation for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Pomona: $19.25 per hour
- North Pomona: $23.00 per hour
Prep Cooks working in North Pomona can expect the highest pay among these nearby locations, possibly due to differences in establishment types and local market factors.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors play a role in shaping the salary of a Prep Cook in Pomona:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced cooks with refined culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or catering companies can offer better pay compared to fast-food or casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premium pay or overtime benefits.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification enhance a Prep Cook’s employability and earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Pomona’s market conditions and living expenses influence salary ranges.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Pomona, CA
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Pomona can be approached through several steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Enrolling in programs like those at the Collins College of Hospitality Management, which offers comprehensive hospitality management education.
- Acquire Food Safety Certification: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is often mandatory in food service roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions in food prep or assisting cooks provide hands-on skills.
- Network in the Culinary Field: Connecting with local chefs, restaurants, and culinary organizations can open doors to job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Pomona
Some of the notable employers looking for Prep Cooks in Pomona include:
- Family A Fair Inc
- Cal Poly Pomona Foundation
- Farmer Boys
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Pomona Work At
Prep Cooks in Pomona find roles across various food service establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, catering companies, and institutional kitchens.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary levels. Fast casual places may offer consistent hours but generally lower wages. Catering and upscale casual environments often provide higher pay to skilled prep cooks, reflecting the complexity and volume of food prep required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Prep Cook, consider roles such as Commis Chef, Line Cook, and Fry Cook, which share similar skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Pomona
To understand important labor laws and tax regulations affecting Prep Cooks in Pomona, consider the following resources:
- Check federal labor standards and employment information at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific workplace regulations and labor laws, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.