Prep Cook Salary in Tempe, AZ
Prep Cooks in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.06 per hour, which translates to about $722.40 per week, $3,130.40 per month, and $37,564.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Tempe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food service industry across the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Tempe varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here is a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.13 | $645.20 | $2,787.47 | $33,550.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.06 | $722.40 | $3,130.40 | $37,564.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.21 | $808.40 | $3,498.93 | $41,036.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Tempe Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen preparation. Their compensation is generally based solely on an hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of approximately $16.75 per hour, which amounts to about $34,840 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Tempe earn around $18.06 per hour and $37,564.80 annually, which is higher than the national average, reflecting regional cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Tempe: $19.50 per hour
- North Tempe: $18.75 per hour
Downtown Tempe provides the highest pay rates for Prep Cooks, possibly due to a concentration of upscale dining establishments and higher living expenses.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Tempe?
Multiple factors determine how much a Prep Cook can earn in Tempe:
- Experience and Culinary Skills: Those with more kitchen experience or specialized skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels generally offer better pay compared to fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications and culinary training can positively impact salary.
- Shift Hours and Workload: Prep Cooks working night or busy shifts may receive higher compensation.
- Local Economic Conditions: Market demand and cost of living in Tempe influence wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Tempe
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in Tempe involves several practical steps to boost employability and career growth.
- Complete Culinary Arts Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College or Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational culinary skills and kitchen management training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Arizona Food Handler Card are commonly required and demonstrate knowledge of critical food safety practices.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Entry-level roles or internships provide invaluable hands-on experience in food preparation and teamwork.
- Build a Strong Work Ethic: Demonstrating reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important qualities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Tempe
Many notable establishments in Tempe provide opportunities for Prep Cooks, including:
- Blanco (Cocina + Cantina)
- North Italia
- Culinary Dropout
- Flower Child
- Mills Modern Social
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Tempe Work At
Prep Cooks in Tempe are employed across a diverse range of food service venues, each impacting salary potential differently.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and are the most common employers, typically providing standard wage levels.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Fast casual spots may pay competitively due to higher volume and demand for quick preparation.
- Fine Dining Restaurants and Hotels: Offering higher wages and sometimes benefits, these establishments value skilled prep cooks who can maintain quality and consistency.
- Catering and Event Venues: These settings might offer variable pay depending on event schedules and workload.
The type and prestige of the establishment will heavily influence a Prep Cook's earning capacity in Tempe.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Prep Cooks
For those interested in related roles, several other positions within the culinary and hospitality sector may appeal and offer varying salary prospects.
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, each related to food preparation but with different responsibilities and salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Tempe
Prep Cooks need to stay informed about local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper compliance and understanding of their work rights and responsibilities.
- Information on Arizona state employment standards can be found on the official Arizona government website.
- Health and safety standards, including food handling requirements for prep cooks, are detailed at the Arizona Department of Health Services website.