Prep Cook in Rio Rancho, NM
Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $16.92 per hour, which translates to about $676.80 per week, $2,932.80 per month, and $35,193.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a healthy and expanding opportunity for individuals interested in culinary preparation roles in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Rio Rancho, NM?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Rio Rancho can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.97 | $518.80 | $2,243.47 | $26,257.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.67 | $626.80 | $2,688.67 | $32,593.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.94 | $757.60 | $3,280.53 | $39,395.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role mainly involves behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on a fixed wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Rio Rancho vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.67 per hour, translating to about $32,593.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho earn slightly more, with about $16.92 per hour and $35,193.60 annually.
This difference can be attributed to regional demand and local wage standards in the food service industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rio Rancho for Prep Cooks
When looking at nearby areas, salaries for Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho vary as follows:
- The Neighborhood in Rio Rancho: $18.75 per hour
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services: $17.50 per hour
These nearby employers offer competitive pay, often influenced by the establishment type and the complexity of food preparation required.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Rio Rancho?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Rio Rancho:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with efficient knife skills and knowledge of food safety standards can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or healthcare facilities tends to pay more than small cafes or fast-food places.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler can enhance pay potential by demonstrating knowledge of proper food handling.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or busy periods might come with shift differentials increasing overall earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Rio Rancho
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Rio Rancho can be guided by several important steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in essential culinary skills.
- Take Continuing Education Culinary Classes: The University of New Mexico offers classes that can help develop cooking techniques suitable for food service roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and often required for food preparation jobs.
- Get Any Required Permits: For those working in establishments serving alcohol, the New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit ensures compliance with responsible service laws.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho include:
- The Neighborhood in Rio Rancho
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services
- Turquoise Desert Taproom
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho Work At
Prep Cooks often work in a variety of food service establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual spots, healthcare facilities, and taverns.
The type of establishment can influence the salary significantly. For example, healthcare services like Presbyterian Healthcare Services might offer higher wages due to stringent food safety standards and volume requirements.
Fast casual restaurants might provide steadier shifts but typically offer lower wages than upscale or specialized venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rio Rancho for Prep Cooks
If you’re considering careers related to Prep Cook, here are a few similar roles to explore that require overlapping culinary skills and knowledge:
These include Fry Cook, Commis Chef, and Cook, which represent career paths with related kitchen responsibilities and possibilities for advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Rio Rancho
Prep Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair treatment and compliance with regulations.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and workforce guidance for New Mexico can be found on the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions site.
- The official Rio Rancho government website offers resources and local employment information.