Prep Cook Salary in Spokane, WA
Prep Cooks in Spokane, 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 in Spokane is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry locally.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary for a Prep Cook in Spokane varies depending on experience and employer size. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Spokane Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on kitchen preparation and support rather than direct interaction with customers. Their compensation is primarily through their hourly wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in Spokane earn slightly less at approximately $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually, reflecting local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher pay prospects for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Spokane: $15.50 per hour
- South Hill: $17.60 per hour
These areas present opportunities for better pay, often depending on the establishments and their clientele.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Spokane:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined culinary skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually offers better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Additional food safety certifications or culinary training can boost earning potential.
- Hours and Shifts: Prep Cooks working evening or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Areas with higher demand for kitchen staff can influence wages upward.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Spokane
Those interested in becoming a Prep Cook in Spokane can follow these steps to improve their job prospects and salary:
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Programs such as the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive preparation for culinary careers including prep cooking.
- Enroll in Hands-On Cooking Programs: The Inland Northwest Culinary Academy in Spokane provides practical experience crucial for kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is required for all food service workers in Washington, guaranteeing knowledge of safe food handling. Additionally, the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and preferred by many employers.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Starting in kitchens at casual dining or fast food establishments helps build skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Spokane
Some of the leading employers currently hiring Prep Cooks in Spokane include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Spokane Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in a range of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: These offer steady hours but often lower pay rates.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally provide moderate wages and opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages due to volume and service expectations.
- Catering Companies: May provide varied work hours and opportunities to develop diverse skills.
The type of establishment affects the salary range significantly, with upscale hotels and resorts tending to offer the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in exploring careers similar to Prep Cook, consider these related roles in the hospitality industry:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, which share many duties and skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Spokane
Knowing your labor rights and tax obligations is important as a Prep Cook in Spokane.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for detailed information on workplace rights, wage laws, and safety regulations.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.