Prep Cook Salary in Tacoma, WA
Prep Cooks in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $780.00 per week, $3,380.00 per month, and $40,560.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Tacoma is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and expanding opportunities for those looking to enter or advance in the culinary field.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Tacoma varies based on experience and employer, but below is an overview of typical pay levels across experience ranges.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.53 | $661.20 | $2,865.20 | $34,345.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,973.33 | $47,840.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, which translates to about $34,944 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Tacoma earn slightly more at $19.50 per hour and $40,560 per year.
This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living, demand, and local industry standards in Tacoma.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Prep Cooks
The pay for Prep Cooks can vary in areas surrounding Tacoma:
- Downtown Tacoma: $20.50 per hour
- North End: $21.00 per hour
Those working in the North End tend to earn the highest wages among these nearby areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Tacoma?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Tacoma can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Experience & skills: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with specialized culinary skills often command higher pay.
- Type of establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better compensation than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and education: Completion of culinary training and food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Work hours and shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may pay more due to demand.
- Local market demand: Tacoma's evolving food industry and hospitality sector shape wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Tacoma
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Tacoma involves several practical steps:
- Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Bates Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the South Puget Sound Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provide essential hands-on training.
- Food safety certification: Obtain a Food Handler's Permit required by Washington State, along with the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification to demonstrate food safety knowledge.
- Gain experience: Entry-level roles in kitchens or apprenticeships help build practical skills.
- Networking: Connect with local culinary professionals and employers for job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Tacoma
Several notable employers actively seek qualified Prep Cooks in Tacoma, including:
- Silver Cloud Inns & Hotels
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Stanley & Seafort's
- Tacoma Pie
- Cooper's Food and Drink
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Tacoma Work At
Prep Cooks in Tacoma find roles across a range of food service establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants: Typically provide steady work with moderate wages.
- Fast casual venues: Often have faster-paced environments, usually offering entry-level salaries.
- Hotels and resorts: May offer higher wages and benefits compared to smaller eateries.
- Catering companies: Variable pay depending on contract size and event type.
The type and size of the establishment greatly impact earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in related roles in the hospitality industry, consider exploring the following:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, which share culinary skills and can be natural career progression options.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Tacoma
Prep Cooks working in Tacoma should familiarize themselves with state regulations and labor standards to ensure proper working conditions:
- Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website for information on professional regulations.
- For workplace safety laws and employee rights, see the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.