Prep Cook Salary in Scottsdale, AZ
Prep Cooks in Scottsdale, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.66 per hour, which translates to about $746.40 per week, $3,234.40 per month, and $38,812.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Scottsdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities within the culinary sector of this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Scottsdale, AZ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Scottsdale can vary depending on experience, skills, and the employer. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.19 | $647.60 | $2,800.87 | $33,610.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.66 | $746.40 | $3,234.40 | $38,812.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.51 | $860.40 | $3,720.40 | $44,620.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Scottsdale Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips because their role is primarily behind the scenes, focused on preparing ingredients to assist chefs and kitchen staff. Their compensation is mainly from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Scottsdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.82 per hour, translating to about $34,985.60 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Scottsdale earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $18.66 and an annual salary of $38,812.80. This suggests that local wages in Scottsdale are competitive, likely influenced by the city's dynamic hospitality industry and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Scottsdale for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Old Town: $20.50 per hour
- North Scottsdale: $21.00 per hour
Prep Cooks working in North Scottsdale tend to earn the highest wages among nearby communities, possibly due to the area's upscale dining establishments and greater demand for skilled kitchen staff.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Scottsdale?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Scottsdale:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined knife skills, food safety knowledge, and speed often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies may offer better pay than fast food outlets or casual dining.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications such as ServSafe and culinary training can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts might come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Scottsdale’s cost of living and thriving hospitality sector encourage competitive salaries for culinary roles.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Scottsdale
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Scottsdale involves several practical steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enrolling in programs such as the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Arizona Culinary Institute provides comprehensive hands-on training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate knowledge of food safety and basic culinary skills, often required by employers.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Many Prep Cooks start by working in fast casual or casual dining establishments, building skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Efficient teamwork and reliability are key traits valued in kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Scottsdale
The following establishments in Scottsdale are known to hire Prep Cooks:
- Olive & Ivy
- Mexicano Cactus
- Culinary Dropout
- Snooze an AM Eatery
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Scottsdale Work At
Prep Cooks in Scottsdale find employment across various types of culinary establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and foundational culinary experience, though wages may be moderate.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Offer fast-paced environments where Prep Cooks can develop efficiency and speed.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: These establishments may offer higher pay and greater opportunities for advancement but often require more advanced skills.
- Catering Companies: Prep Cooks here may enjoy diverse culinary tasks and seasonal workload variations.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with upscale venues typically offering the highest wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Scottsdale for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Prep Cook, consider roles that share similar skills and industry connections.
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Prep Cook positions, which involve overlapping culinary skills and offer varying levels of responsibility and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Scottsdale
Prep Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations that affect their employment conditions and earnings.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for guidelines on minimum wage, overtime, breaks, and other work regulations.
- Refer to the Arizona state website for employment services and labor regulations for state-specific rules and protections.
- Consult the City of Scottsdale official website for local employment resources and relevant municipal labor insights.