Prep Cook Salary in Tulsa, OK
Prep Cooks in Tulsa, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $14.03 per hour, which translates to about $561.20 per week, $2,431.87 per month, and $29,182.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Tulsa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Tulsa, OK?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Tulsa can vary based on experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.90 | $436.00 | $1,884.67 | $22,672.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.03 | $561.20 | $2,431.87 | $29,182.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.07 | $722.80 | $3,103.47 | $37,565.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Tulsa Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income is mainly derived from their hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Tulsa vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to these figures, Prep Cooks in Tulsa earn slightly less, with an average of $14.03 per hour and $29,182.40 annually. This variance can be influenced by local cost of living and industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tulsa for Prep Cooks
Within Tulsa, some areas offer higher wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Tulsa: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown Tulsa: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Midtown Tulsa tend to earn the highest pay among nearby areas, reflecting the demand and possibly upscale establishments located there.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Tulsa?
Several important factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Tulsa:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Prep Cooks with better culinary knowledge often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and country clubs typically offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certification and Training: Possessing food safety certifications or culinary education can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working evening or weekend shifts may provide opportunities for shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Tulsa
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Tulsa involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions like Tulsa Community College Culinary Arts Program and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary training to prepare students for roles in food service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and often required by employers.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate foundational culinary skills and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in kitchens as a line cook or kitchen assistant provides valuable hands-on learning and industry exposure.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Tulsa
The following employers are known for hiring Prep Cooks in Tulsa:
- Sodexo
- Southern Hills Country Club
- P.F. Chang's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Tulsa Work At
Prep Cooks in Tulsa typically work in various types of food establishments, each with its own impact on salary:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: These establishments focus on quick service, with pay often commensurate with volume.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Such establishments normally offer higher pay due to expectations of quality and refined service.
- Specialty Catering and Fine Dining: Though more competitive, these settings can offer increased salary and tips where applicable.
The type of establishment greatly influences the pay structure and opportunities for wage growth as a Prep Cook.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tulsa for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider these related hospitality jobs that share culinary skill sets and work environments:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Porter positions, each with varying responsibilities and salary ranges but sharing a foundational culinary focus.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Tulsa
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that govern their work environment and earnings in Tulsa:
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and regulations.
- Consult the Oklahoma state official site at oklahoma.gov for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- Review the City of Tulsa's regulations and employment resources through the tulsaok.gov website to understand local ordinances affecting workers.