Prep Cook Salary in South Fulton, GA
Prep Cooks in South Fulton, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.98 per hour, which translates to about $639.20 per week, $2,769.87 per month, and $33,238.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in South Fulton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market in the foodservice industry in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in South Fulton, GA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in South Fulton varies based on experience and skills. Below is an overview of what you can expect at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.54 | $501.60 | $2,172.80 | $26,083.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.98 | $639.20 | $2,769.87 | $33,238.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.36 | $814.40 | $3,509.07 | $42,348.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in South Fulton Earn Tips?
Generally, Prep Cooks do not earn tips because their primary duties are behind the scenes in kitchen preparation. Their income mainly comes from their salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in South Fulton, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn around $15.98 per hour, or approximately $33,238.40 annually. The salary in South Fulton closely aligns with this national average, making it a competitive region for Prep Cook wages.
The similar pay scale reflects the consistent demand for Prep Cooks across the country, with South Fulton maintaining competitive compensation despite local economic variables.
Highest-Paying Areas Near South Fulton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Area 1: $15.99 per hour
- Area 2: $15.17 per hour
Prep Cooks who are open to commute might find marginally better pay in Area 1, while Area 2 may offer fewer wages but possibly other benefits or opportunities.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in South Fulton?
Several important factors influence how much a Prep Cook can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with advanced culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast food venues.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts might come with additional pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: South Fulton’s demand for foodservice workers and local living costs contribute to salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in South Fulton
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in South Fulton, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Programs like Atlanta Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Atlanta provide foundational skills and knowledge useful for Prep Cooks.
- Get Food Safety Certification: Completing certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification helps demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling.
- Consider Professional Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation is an excellent credential to validate culinary skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level jobs or apprenticeships provide essential kitchen experience and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in South Fulton
Some prominent employers looking for Prep Cooks in South Fulton include:
- Chick-fil-A
- SAGE Dining Services
- The 5 Spot Midtown
Establishments That Prep Cooks in South Fulton Work At
Prep Cooks typically work across a range of foodservice establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide consistent shifts with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Chains: These may offer steady schedules, with wages near the industry average.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Tend to pay higher salaries for skilled Prep Cooks due to demanding standards.
- Catering Services and Hotels: These can offer better pay and allow Prep Cooks to develop diverse skills.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Prep Cook’s salary, with more upscale venues generally offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in South Fulton for Prep Cooks
If you’re exploring careers related to Prep Cook, consider roles that involve similar skills and responsibilities:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, which often require overlapping culinary skills and have related pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in South Fulton
Prep Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to navigate their employment effectively.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information about labor laws.
- For state-specific laws, the Georgia Department of Labor website is an essential resource.
- The City of South Fulton official website provides local regulations and employment resources.