Prep Cook in Surprise, AZ
Prep Cooks in Surprise, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Surprise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for culinary support staff in the area’s expanding hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Surprise varies based on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Surprise Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work is primarily behind the scenes assisting in kitchen preparation. Their compensation is based mostly on hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $17.84 per hour, which amounts to approximately $37,107.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Surprise earn slightly less per hour at $17.00, and their annual salary of $35,360.00 falls a bit below the national yearly average.
This difference may reflect regional cost of living and local market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer these hourly wages for Prep Cooks:
- Glendale, AZ: $18.00 per hour
- Phoenix, AZ: $19.00 per hour
Both Glendale and Phoenix offer higher pay rates than Surprise, potentially due to larger markets and more upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Surprise?
Several key factors influence a Prep Cook's earnings in Surprise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with knowledge of diverse food preparation techniques tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally pay more than fast casual or smaller dining spots.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Prep Cooks working evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive additional pay.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications can positively impact salary offers.
- Local Demand and Competition: The number of culinary establishments in an area also affects wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Surprise
Becoming a skilled Prep Cook in Surprise involves several important steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider enrolling in programs such as those at Arizona Culinary Institute or Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program, which focus on hands-on culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a Food Handler's Card is mandatory in Arizona. Many employers also require the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification to ensure proper food handling knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen positions help develop essential prep skills and familiarity with kitchen operations.
- Develop Strong Work Ethics: Reliability, speed, and attention to detail are highly valued traits for Prep Cooks.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Surprise
Popular employers in Surprise looking for Prep Cooks include:
- Olive Garden
- Torchy's Tacos
- Vogue Bistro
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Surprise Work At
Prep Cooks typically find jobs in varied settings:
- Casual Restaurants: These establishments usually require Prep Cooks to handle diverse tasks quickly, often with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Characterized by fast-paced environments, these places offer steady work with competitive wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages reflecting skill requirements and higher volume food preparation.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: Pay tends to be higher due to precision and presentation demands.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the Prep Cook's salary, benefits, and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Prep Cook
If you're exploring related career options, these roles share similar culinary skills and environments:
These include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, all vital in kitchen operations with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Surprise
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the official Arizona government website for detailed information on state labor laws and employee rights.
- For federal standards and regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a comprehensive resource.