Prep Cook Salary in Portland, OR
Prep Cooks in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $19.58 per hour, which translates to about $783.20 per week, $3,393.87 per month, and $40,726.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Portland is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the culinary industry within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Portland varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.95 | $638.00 | $2,765.33 | $33,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.58 | $783.20 | $3,393.87 | $40,726.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.03 | $961.20 | $4,163.20 | $49,942.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Portland Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role involves kitchen preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly consists of their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $16.73 per hour, or roughly $34,798.40 annually.
Compared to these averages, Prep Cooks in Portland earn $19.58 per hour and make about $40,726.40 per year, which is notably higher than the national figures. This difference reflects Portland's culinary market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Prep Cooks
Nearby cities offer varying compensation levels for Prep Cooks:
- Beaverton: $20.12 per hour
- Hillsboro: $18.09 per hour
Beaverton offers the highest hourly rate among these nearby areas, which may attract Prep Cooks willing to commute for better pay.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Portland?
Prep Cook salaries vary due to several important factors that influence earning potential:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined knife skills and recipe knowledge command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotel kitchens usually pays better than casual or fast-food locations.
- Certifications and Education: Holding food safety certifications such as ServSafe or having completed culinary programs impacts salary.
- Shift Hours and Flexibility: Evening or weekend shifts might include premium pay or bonuses.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Portland's active food scene generally supports competitive pay for kitchen workers.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Portland
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in Portland involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Institutions like the Oregon Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training with hands-on and industry connections.
- Pursue Associate Degrees: Portland Community College’s Culinary Arts Program provides a two-year degree focusing on practical and theoretical knowledge beneficial for Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Required food handler's permits from Oregon and ServSafe Certification are essential credentials for employment.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or internships help develop skills and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Portland
Prep Cooks in Portland commonly find opportunities with several popular employers, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Portland Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in various types of food service environments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work with moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Chains: Work tends to be faster paced, with wages varying depending on location and brand.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Higher-end establishments may offer better pay and benefits due to the complexity of catering demands.
- Specialty or Gourmet Restaurants: These tend to offer the highest salaries due to the advanced skills required.
The choice of establishment significantly influences earning potential, with prestigious or large-scale operations typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Prep Cooks
For those interested in roles related to Prep Cook, several similar hospitality jobs offer alternative career paths.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie roles, which involve various levels of culinary responsibility and skill.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Portland
Prep Cooks should understand the labor laws and tax requirements applicable in Portland and Oregon to ensure proper workplace compliance and financial management.
- Information on state labor laws and regulations can be found at the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
- Federal labor regulations are managed by the U.S. Department of Labor, where workers can learn about rights and protections.
- For state tax information, visit the Oregon Department of Revenue.