Prep Cook Salary in Torrance, CA
Prep Cooks in Torrance, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.43 per hour, which translates to about $737.20 per week, $3,194.53 per month, and $38,334.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Torrance is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job market trend for culinary support roles in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Torrance, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Torrance varies depending on experience and employer, but the following outlines typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.43 | $737.20 | $3,194.53 | $38,334.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.92 | $876.80 | $3,795.73 | $45,593.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Torrance Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their primary responsibilities are kitchen-based, usually without direct customer interaction. Their earnings are mostly from wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Torrance vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, translating to approximately $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Torrance enjoy a higher wage, earning about $18.43 per hour and $38,334.40 annually.
This increase in salary can be attributed to local cost of living and demand for culinary assistants in this California region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Torrance for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Torrance: $19.50 per hour
- Old Town Torrance: $20.00 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Old Town Torrance tend to earn the most, reflecting the area's demand and possibly higher-end culinary establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Torrance?
The salary for Prep Cooks in Torrance can be influenced by several key factors.
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, catering services, or hotels often results in better pay than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Possession of certifications such as ServSafe can increase a Prep Cook’s earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts could offer shift differentials, affecting overall pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Torrance
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Torrance involves gaining relevant culinary knowledge and practical experience.
Options for training include programs like the Long Beach City College Culinary Arts Program, located about 20 miles away, offering an Associate in Science degree and Certificate of Achievement in Culinary Arts. These programs focus on culinary fundamentals and safety standards.
Another option is the Los Angeles Hospitality Education Center, which provides hands-on culinary training and certifications including the critical ServSafe Certification to ensure food safety compliance.
Additionally, the Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate fundamental culinary skills, increasing employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Torrance
Prep Cooks looking for job opportunities in Torrance often find openings at well-known dining and catering companies such as:
- Olive Garden
- BJ's Restaurants
- Made by Meg Catering
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Torrance Work At
Prep Cooks in Torrance commonly work across a variety of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provides steady work with moderate pay reflecting the level of service and clientele.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer competitive wages with fast-paced environments.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide higher salaries and opportunities for advancement given larger scale operations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These tend to pay more due to the specialized culinary skills required and premium client expectations.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Prep Cook’s salary, with upscale venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Torrance for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, consider these similar positions, which may offer different responsibilities and salary levels.
These include Fry Cook, Chef de Partie, and Cook, roles that require varying levels of culinary expertise and offer respective compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Torrance
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for U.S.-wide standards.
- Check the California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations for state-specific guidelines.
- Consult the City of Torrance official website for local regulations and business licenses for city-level information.