Prep Cook Salary in Shreveport, LA
Prep Cooks in Shreveport, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Shreveport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a bright outlook and increasing job opportunities for those entering this essential culinary role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Shreveport, LA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Shreveport varies depending on experience and specific workplace, but here's a breakdown across typical levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Shreveport Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role is predominantly behind the scenes preparing ingredients rather than serving customers directly. Their income primarily comes from their regular salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Shreveport vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Comparing this with Shreveport’s average hourly wage of $13.90 and annual pay of $28,912, Prep Cooks in Shreveport earn slightly below the national average. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Shreveport for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas show some variations in pay for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- South Highlands: $17.60 per hour
These differences could reflect the variety of establishments and clientele in each neighborhood, with South Highlands offering the highest hourly pay among neighboring areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Shreveport?
Multiple factors impact how much a Prep Cook can earn in Shreveport:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who are proficient in various food preparation techniques tend to earn higher pay.
- Skill Set: Skills such as knife proficiency, knowledge of culinary terms, and ability to follow complex recipes boost employability and wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty food services often offers better compensation than fast-food or casual dining.
- Work Hours and Shift: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes include shift differentials that increase hourly pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with a high density of restaurants may offer more opportunities but also more competition, influencing salary levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Shreveport
Becoming a skilled Prep Cook involves a combination of training, certification, and practical experience.
Many candidates start by taking basic culinary classes such as those offered by Us Up North, which specializes in cooking classes focused on local cuisine and techniques in Shreveport.
Additionally, obtaining a ServSafe Certification is highly recommended to ensure compliance with food safety standards and increase employability.
Gaining on-the-job experience, either through internships or entry-level kitchen positions, helps develop essential skills and can lead to career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Shreveport
Several well-known chains and establishments frequently hire Prep Cooks in the Shreveport area, including:
- Olive Garden
- Carrabba's Italian Grill
- Copeland's of New Orleans
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Shreveport Work At
Prep Cooks find positions in a variety of culinary establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: Moderate pay, often with flexible hours but less specialized tasks.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Consistent work, sometimes with entry-level-friendly pay scales.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer higher salaries and benefits in exchange for higher standards and volume demands.
- Fine Dining: Typically pays more due to the complexity of food preparation and customer expectations.
A Prep Cook’s salary can be influenced significantly by the type of establishment, with upscale venues often rewarding greater expertise and responsibility.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Shreveport for Prep Cooks
If you are considering roles closely related to Prep Cook, here are some similar hospitality jobs popular in the area:
Positions like Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef involve related skills and often serve as logical next steps or alternatives within the kitchen hierarchy.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Shreveport
Prep Cooks should be informed about the legal and tax frameworks governing employment in Shreveport.
- Consult the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and worker rights.
- The Louisiana state government site provides resources specific to state labor laws, wage requirements, and workplace regulations.