Prep Cook Salary in Raleigh, NC
Prep Cooks in Raleigh, NC, earn approximately $16.62 per hour, which translates to about $664.80 per week, $2,880.80 per month, and $34,569.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the culinary industry within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Raleigh varies based on experience, but here is a breakdown by experience level to give a comprehensive view of earning potential.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.55 | $542.00 | $2,346.67 | $28,184.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.62 | $664.80 | $2,880.80 | $34,569.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.39 | $815.60 | $3,524.27 | $42,411.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Raleigh, NC Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because their role involves working behind the scenes in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is mostly based on their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Raleigh, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of $16.62 per hour and approximately $34,569.60 per year.
Prep Cooks in Raleigh earn at the national average, reflecting the city's competitive market and cost of living when compared to other metropolitan areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Prep Cooks include:
- North Hills: $18.00 per hour
- Downtown Raleigh: $17.50 per hour
These areas tend to offer better wages likely due to their bustling culinary scenes and higher living costs within these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Raleigh, NC?
Several factors can impact a Prep Cook’s salary in Raleigh:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experience and specialized skills can lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer better compensation than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as ServSafe can make a Prep Cook more valuable.
- Shift and Hours: Working nights, weekends, or holidays may come with pay premiums.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Raleigh, NC
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Chef's Academy at Raleigh-Durham provide excellent hands-on learning opportunities.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Many Prep Cooks start by working in kitchens to build foundational skills.
- Consider Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is a valuable credential that can enhance your resume and advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Raleigh, NC
Some of the leading employers offering positions for Prep Cooks in Raleigh include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Raleigh, NC Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment at a variety of culinary establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often offer entry-level jobs but with lower pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Dining: These venues provide a mix of steady hours and moderate pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Tend to offer higher salaries with opportunities for growth.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay more due to the skill and precision required.
The type of establishment can greatly influence earnings, job duties, and growth potential for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh, NC for Prep Cooks
Many Prep Cooks consider related roles for career growth or diversification, such as:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Cook positions, which share overlapping responsibilities and skills with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Raleigh, NC
Prep Cooks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor law information and workplace safety guidelines.
- Check the North Carolina Department of Labor for state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- The City of Raleigh official website provides local resources, permits, and community employment information.