Prep Cook Salary in San Bernardino, CA
Prep Cooks in San Bernardino, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.44 per hour, which translates to about $817.60 per week, $3,542.93 per month, and $42,515.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in San Bernardino is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling good job prospects and increasing need for this role in the hospitality and foodservice industries.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in San Bernardino, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in San Bernardino varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s a general breakdown across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.43 | $737.20 | $3,193.73 | $38,324.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.44 | $817.60 | $3,542.93 | $42,515.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.67 | $906.80 | $3,909.87 | $46,753.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in San Bernardino Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mostly involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings primarily come from their hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in San Bernardino vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, translating to about $33,280 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in San Bernardino earn significantly more, both hourly and annually, which is reflective of the local cost of living and thriving foodservice industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Bernardino for Prep Cooks
In the vicinity of San Bernardino, pay rates vary slightly:
- Downtown San Bernardino: $21.50 per hour
- North San Bernardino: $22.00 per hour
These nearby areas offer some of the highest wages for Prep Cooks, likely due to higher demand and more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in San Bernardino?
Several factors can have a notable impact on a Prep Cook's earnings in San Bernardino:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with knife skills, food safety knowledge, and efficiency typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies can result in better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler can enhance credibility and earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in San Bernardino
Getting started as a Prep Cook often involves a combination of education and hands-on experience.
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at San Bernardino Valley College prepare students for roles in culinary and food services, providing valuable skills and certifications.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification verifies understanding of important food safety practices, which is a standard requirement in many kitchens.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles as kitchen assistants or helpers can build foundational kitchen skills to move into a Prep Cook position.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in San Bernardino
Some notable employers in San Bernardino that commonly hire Prep Cooks include:
- Olive Garden
- San Bernardino County Probation Department
Establishments That Prep Cooks in San Bernardino Work At
Prep Cooks are employed in a variety of foodservice environments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady work and training opportunities with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Usually fast-paced with consistent schedules but generally lower pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide better pay and benefits, particularly in larger or upscale operations.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as health care or educational facilities, offering different work environments and salary scales.
The type of establishment impacts wage level due to factors like skill demands, customer volume, and service type.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Bernardino for Prep Cooks
If you are considering careers similar to Prep Cook, here are some related roles worth exploring:
These include Line Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Commis Chef positions, which share many responsibilities and career paths with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in San Bernardino
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Prep Cooks working in San Bernardino. Helpful resources include:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to learn about nationwide employment rules.
- Check the California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations for local guidelines affecting pay, hours, and workplace rights.