Prep Cook Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Prep Cooks in Spokane-Valley, WA, in 2025, 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 job market for Prep Cooks is growing at a steady rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for individuals seeking opportunities in this role within the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Spokane-Valley varies depending on the level of experience and industry. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career:
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily back-of-house and does not involve direct customer interaction. Their compensation is generally limited to their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn around $14.50 per hour, which adds up to approximately $30,160 annually.
Comparing this to Spokane-Valley, where the average hourly wage is $13.90 and yearly salary roughly $28,912, the pay here is slightly lower than the national average. This difference can often be influenced by the cost of living and local labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer variation in Prep Cook salaries:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Salaries tend to be higher in surrounding regions than in Spokane-Valley itself, providing opportunities for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Spokane-Valley:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more experience, speed, and precision in food preparation are more likely to earn at the higher end of the pay scale.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies tends to offer better pay than fast-food chains or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Additional food safety certifications or culinary training can increase earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with differential pay.
- Local Market Conditions: Wages reflect the demand for kitchen staff and the overall economic conditions in the Spokane-Valley area.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Spokane-Valley
Starting a career as a Prep Cook involves several important steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Skills: Enroll in vocational programs like the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers hands-on training and prepares students for entry-level kitchen roles.
- Consider an Associate Degree: The Inland Northwest Culinary Academy offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts focused on practical kitchen experience.
- Obtain Required Certifications: A Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers in the state. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is highly recommended and often required by employers.
- Build Experience on the Job: Many Prep Cooks start by working in entry-level kitchen positions or as kitchen assistants.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Spokane-Valley
Some of the major employers frequently hiring Prep Cooks in the area include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Spokane-Valley Work At
Prep Cooks find employment across a range of food service establishments including:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically offer entry-level positions with hourly wages on the lower end but can provide steady work.
- Casual Dining: These establishments often pay more than fast food and may provide opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually offer higher salaries and possible benefits due to more formal kitchen operations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often pay rates on the higher end and expect a greater degree of skill and precision.
The type of establishment significantly influences the Prep Cook’s salary, with specialized or upscale venues generally providing higher earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Prep Cooks
If you are considering other roles connected to the culinary industry, here are some careers similar to Prep Cook:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, all of which require culinary skills and offer different opportunities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Spokane-Valley
It's important for Prep Cooks to understand labor regulations and tax obligations in both Washington State and federally:
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for details on state-specific labor laws, wage standards, and worker rights.
- For federal labor laws and guidelines, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.