Prep Cook Salary in Sacramento, CA
Prep Cooks in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.57 per hour, which translates to about $782.80 per week, $3,392.13 per month, and $40,705.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Sacramento is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Sacramento, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Sacramento can vary based on experience and the employer. Below is an overview of the typical salaries at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.57 | $782.80 | $3,392.13 | $40,705.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.08 | $923.20 | $3,995.73 | $47,993.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities mostly involve back-of-house food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is typically based solely on wages or salary without tip supplements.
Prep Cook Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.58 per hour, translating to about $34,486.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Sacramento earn higher wages, with an average of $19.57 per hour and $40,705.60 annually. This suggests that Sacramento's market offers better compensation, likely reflecting local living costs and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas show slightly varying salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Sacramento: $20.50 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $21.00 per hour
Midtown Sacramento offers the highest hourly pay among these locations, making it an attractive area for Prep Cooks seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Sacramento?
Several factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Sacramento:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels often pay more than fast-food or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Food safety certifications and culinary training can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts might include shift differentials that boost pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Sacramento
Becoming a Prep Cook in Sacramento can be achieved by following some key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the American River College Culinary Arts Program and the Sacramento City College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training and hands-on experience relevant to this role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are often required and demonstrate knowledge of safe food practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or internships can help develop essential skills and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Sacramento
Some prominent employers seeking Prep Cooks in Sacramento include:
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Yard House
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Sacramento Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often have steady work hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These can provide a quicker pace and may have variable pay scales.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer higher wages and benefits due to the upscale nature of service.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: May offer seasonal or event-based work with varying salaries.
The type of establishment affects the salary, with more upscale venues generally offering better pay and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to Prep Cook, consider these similar careers:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which involve culinary skills related to food preparation and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Sacramento
Prep Cooks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state labor laws and workplace regulations can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Additional local regulations and resources specific to Sacramento are available on the City of Sacramento official website.