Prep Cook Salary in Provo, UT
Prep Cooks in Provo, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $15.89 per hour, which translates to about $635.60 per week, $2,754.27 per month, and $33,051.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Provo is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry in this area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Provo, UT?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Provo varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Provo Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work is usually behind the scenes and not involved in direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from the base salary or hourly wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Provo vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $15.99 per hour, which amounts to roughly $33,259.20 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Provo earn slightly less than the national average hourly rate of $15.99, with an hourly wage of $15.89 and an annual salary of $33,051.20. The slight variance can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Provo for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Prep Cooks, such as:
- Sundance Mountain Resort: $21.00 per hour
- The Cheesecake Factory: $16.50 per hour
Working at Sundance Mountain Resort offers considerably higher wages for Prep Cooks compared to other local establishments, reflecting the resort’s upscale environment and higher standards.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Provo?
Experience is a major factor affecting how much a Prep Cook can earn. Those with more years of kitchen experience typically command higher pay.
Skills such as food preparation techniques, knife skills, and knowledge of kitchen safety can boost salary prospects.
The type of establishment also influences pay. High-end restaurants and resorts often offer better compensation compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
Shift differentials for night or weekend shifts can increase earnings.
Holding recognized food safety certifications can make candidates more competitive and potentially increase wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Provo
To become a Prep Cook in Provo, aspiring individuals can follow these steps:
- Complete culinary programs at schools such as Utah Valley University Culinary Arts Institute, which offers comprehensive training in practical and theoretical skills.
- Attend hands-on training at Mountainland Technical College Culinary Arts Program to develop essential kitchen skills.
- Obtain food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Utah Food Handler Permit, which are commonly required in the food service industry.
- Gain experience through entry-level kitchen jobs or internships to build a strong foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Provo
Several notable employers in Provo actively seek Prep Cooks, including:
- Sundance Mountain Resort
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
- Tucanos Brazilian Grill
- Costa Vida
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Provo Work At
Prep Cooks in Provo commonly work in a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide moderate wages and often offer steady work schedules.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically have a fast-paced environment with competitive hourly pay but fewer benefits.
- Resorts and Hotels: Upscale venues like Sundance Mountain Resort pay higher salaries and may provide additional perks.
- Specialty and Ethnic Restaurants: These establishments sometimes offer specialized preparation roles with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment you work for can significantly influence salary, job responsibilities, and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Provo for Prep Cooks
If you’re exploring similar career options, the following roles share many responsibilities and skills with Prep Cooks:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook roles, which offer related culinary work but focus on different aspects of food preparation and kitchen duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Provo
Prep Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on workplace rights and standards.
- The State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services website offers guidance on employment laws and job assistance programs.
- For broader state information, official Utah government website provides resources related to labor regulations and taxes.