Prep Cook Salary in San Francisco, CA
Prep Cooks in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.01 per hour, which translates to about $880.40 per week, $3,815.07 per month, and $45,780.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in San Francisco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an encouraging outlook for job opportunities in the culinary industry in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in San Francisco varies by experience level. Here is an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.18 | $767.20 | $3,321.87 | $39,862.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.01 | $880.40 | $3,815.07 | $45,780.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.68 | $1,067.20 | $4,613.87 | $55,470.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is usually performed behind the scenes and they are not involved in direct customer service. Their earnings mostly come from their regular wages.
Prep Cook Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, translating to about $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in San Francisco earn significantly more, at about $22.01 per hour and $45,780.80 annually. This discrepancy is largely due to higher living costs in San Francisco and the demand for culinary professionals in this major metropolitan area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Prep Cooks
Nearby locations offer varying pay for Prep Cooks:
- Area 1: $24.61 per hour
- Area 2: $22.38 per hour
Prep Cooks willing to commute to these areas might find better salary opportunities compared to San Francisco depending on the establishment and local economic factors.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in San Francisco:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks typically earn higher wages due to their proficiency and speed in the kitchen.
- Skills: Specialized culinary skills or certifications can increase a Prep Cook's value to employers.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and catering companies often pay more than fast food or casual dining establishments.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or weekends may come with higher pay or shift differentials.
- Local Economy: The cost of living and demand in San Francisco directly impact salary levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in San Francisco
Becoming a Prep Cook in San Francisco can be achieved with several strategic steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Schools like the San Francisco Cooking School offer professional culinary programs focusing on hands-on training and industry exposure. City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies provides comprehensive culinary education with practical experience.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the California Food Handler Card is often required and valued by employers.
- Hands-on Experience: Gaining experience through internships or entry-level kitchen roles helps develop necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in San Francisco
Some employers actively seeking Prep Cooks in San Francisco include:
- City Experiences
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in San Francisco Work At
Prep Cooks typically work at various types of food service establishments including:
- Casual Restaurants: These may offer moderate pay but steady hours.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide consistent work with slightly higher pay than fast food.
- High-End Restaurants: Usually pay higher wages due to the demanding nature and quality standards.
- Hotel Kitchens and Catering Companies: These employers might offer competitive benefits alongside wages.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect the salary potential of a Prep Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Prep Cooks
If you are considering alternatives or career progression, these related roles might be of interest:
These include roles like Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which involve similar culinary skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in San Francisco
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Prep Cooks working in San Francisco.
- You can learn about federal labor laws and employment information at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific labor laws and regulations visit the California Department of Industrial Relations website.