Prep Cook Salary in Providence, RI
Prep Cooks in Providence, RI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.92 per hour, which translates to about $756.80 per week, $3,279.47 per month, and $39,353.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Providence is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the food preparation industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Providence, RI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Providence varies based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.92 | $756.80 | $3,279.47 | $39,353.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.07 | $1,002.80 | $4,338.67 | $52,145.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Providence Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen preparing ingredients and assisting cooks. Their compensation primarily comes from their regular wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Providence vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, equating to approximately $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Providence earn more, at about $18.92 per hour and $39,353.60 annually. This reflects Providence's slightly higher living costs and demand for culinary staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Providence for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following hourly wages for Prep Cooks:
- Newport: $20.08 per hour
- Exeter: $19.56 per hour
Newport offers the highest pay among nearby locations, making it an attractive option for Prep Cooks seeking higher earnings close to Providence.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Providence?
Several factors impact how much a Prep Cook can earn in Providence:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with skills in menu preparation and kitchen efficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or catering services usually receive better pay compared to those in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary certifications or food safety credentials can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Labor Market Conditions: The demand for kitchen staff and living costs in Providence influence wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Providence
Launching a career as a Prep Cook in Providence involves several steps to develop the right skills and credentials:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Education: Consider an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts or a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts, such as those offered by Johnson & Wales University, which provide foundational and advanced cooking skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential for understanding proper food safety and hygiene practices in professional kitchens.
- Gain Basic Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation is a recognized entry-level certification showing competency in culinary techniques.
- Acquire On-the-Job Experience: Working in kitchens as an assistant or helper helps build practical skills and can lead to promotion as a Prep Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Providence
Several notable companies in Providence regularly seek Prep Cooks, including:
- Russell Morin Catering and Events
- Delaware North
- Sodexo
- P.F. Chang's
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Providence Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, catering operations, and large hotel kitchens.
Casual dining establishments may offer moderate wages and stable hours.
Fast casual and quick service restaurants often have faster paced environments but typically pay less than upscale places.
Catering companies and hotels tend to pay better and may provide more opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, benefits, and working conditions for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Providence for Prep Cooks
If you are considering similar career paths related to being a Prep Cook, some options include:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, which involve related kitchen responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Providence
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax rules to ensure their rights and obligations are understood and respected.
- Information on Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training - state labor laws and employment information is crucial for understanding local workplace standards.
- Federal guidelines are available on the U.S. Department of Labor - federal labor laws and regulations website for broader employment concerns.