Prep Cook Salary in Seattle, WA
Prep Cooks in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.13 per hour, which translates to about $925.20 per week, $4,009.20 per month, and $48,110.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those seeking opportunities in this role within the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary for a Prep Cook in Seattle varies based on experience and employer, but the following table outlines earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,590.40 | $43,084.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.13 | $925.20 | $4,009.20 | $48,110.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.89 | $1,115.60 | $4,819.47 | $57,971.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Seattle Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their duties are mostly behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.75 per hour, which is roughly $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Seattle earn considerably more, about $23.13 hourly and $48,110.40 annually.
This difference is often due to Seattle's higher cost of living and local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, Prep Cook salaries in some of Seattle’s suburbs include:
- Redmond: $23.25 per hour
- Stanwood: $23.13 per hour
Redmond offers slightly higher pay, making it a competitive option for Prep Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors influence the salary of Prep Cooks in Seattle:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined knife skills and familiarity with various cuisines can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, catering companies, and hotels often pay more than fast casual or cafeteria settings.
- Certification and Training: Having relevant culinary training or certifications can enhance employability and earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts may sometimes include premium pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Seattle’s competitive restaurant scene and living costs often reflect on wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Seattle
Pursuing a career as a Prep Cook in Seattle involves several key steps:
- Gain Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like those at Seattle Culinary Academy, which offers comprehensive culinary arts education, including specialized training for Prep Cooks.
- Attend Local College Programs: South Seattle College Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on experience crucial for foundational skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Mandatory certifications in Washington State include the Food Handler's Permit and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification, essential for employment in food service.
- Start Entry-Level Work: Begin in prep or kitchen aide roles to develop practical skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Seattle
Some of the notable employers in Seattle hiring Prep Cooks are:
- Cactus GmbH
- LOCAL Public Eatery
- Pizza and Pasta Bar at Pike Place Market
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Seattle Work At
Prep Cooks in Seattle find opportunities across various establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide numerous entry-level positions with moderate pay.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often offer better salaries and opportunities for career growth due to higher client expectations and complexity of food preparation.
- Catering and Event Services: Pay can vary widely but may include higher wages for event-specific demanding work.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically provide steady work with competitive wages and benefits.
The type of establishment influences salary and advancement opportunities significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in roles related to Prep Cook, consider these similar hospitality careers:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, all of which share culinary preparation skills with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Seattle
Prep Cooks in Seattle should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Federal labor laws, regulations, and employee rights can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Washington State-specific labor laws and workplace safety information are available at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
- Additional local regulations and resource information can be found on the City of Seattle's official website.