Prep Cook Salary in Suffolk, VA
Prep Cooks in Suffolk, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.04 per hour, which translates to about $641.60 per week, $2,780.27 per month, and $33,363.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job prospects and increasing opportunities in the local culinary industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Suffolk can vary based on experience and skills. 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) | $13.44 | $537.60 | $2,325.60 | $27,907.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.04 | $641.60 | $2,780.27 | $33,363.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,469.07 | $41,641.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their role usually involves behind-the-scenes kitchen preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly relies on hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.40 per hour, translating to roughly $34,112 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Suffolk earn slightly less hourly at $16.04 per hour and about $33,363.20 annually.
This small difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and demand within the region’s culinary market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Suffolk: $17.50 per hour
- Harbour View: $15.00 per hour
Prep Cooks looking to maximize earnings might consider opportunities in Downtown Suffolk, which offers higher wages compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Suffolk, including:
- Experience and Skills: Those with more kitchen experience or specialized prep skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels may make more than those in casual or fast-food environments.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts might involve shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand: Economic factors and culinary market growth in Suffolk impact salary levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Suffolk
Launching a career as a Prep Cook in Suffolk involves several key steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Suffolk Public Schools Culinary Arts Program provide foundational culinary education and hands-on experience.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety best practices and is often required by employers.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships in local kitchens are important for developing essential skills.
- Seek Entry-Level Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation is a recognized credential that can help advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Suffolk
Prep Cooks in Suffolk may find job opportunities with these notable employers:
- Compass Group
- Bickford of Suffolk
- Metro Diner
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Suffolk Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work at a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual and Family Restaurants: Provide steady, entry-level jobs with moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often have standardized tasks and pay scales, with less variability in earnings.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These venues may offer higher pay and occasional benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Prep Cooks here might earn more and develop advanced skills working alongside chefs.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary, with higher-end venues generally paying better than quick-service locations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Prep Cook
Those interested in culinary careers similar to Prep Cook may consider roles such as:
This includes Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, which share related responsibilities in kitchen preparation and food production.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Suffolk
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations applicable locally and nationally for a secure working environment and proper compliance.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal standards.
- Check the Virginia state website for labor and employment laws for state-specific guidance.
- The Local government website provides city-specific resources and regulations relevant to workers in Suffolk.