Prep Cook Salary in Tyler, TX
Prep Cooks in Tyler, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.55 per hour, which translates to about $542.00 per week, $2,348.67 per month, and $28,184.00 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Tyler is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary support staff in the area and expanding opportunities for those entering this field.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Tyler, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Tyler varies based on experience and skills, but the following table provides an overview across different earning levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.84 | $433.60 | $1,877.07 | $22,512.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.55 | $542.00 | $2,348.67 | $28,184.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.95 | $678.00 | $2,935.00 | $35,256.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Tyler Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is typically behind the scenes, preparing ingredients rather than directly serving customers. Their compensation mostly comes from hourly wages or salaries.
Prep Cook Salary in Tyler, TX vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $13.55 and make approximately $28,184 per year.
This places Tyler’s Prep Cook salaries in line with the national average, indicating competitive wages that align with broader industry standards across the US.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tyler for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas paying the highest wages for Prep Cooks include:
- South Broadway Avenue: $16.00 per hour
- West Southwest Loop 323: $16.00 per hour
Working in these locations may provide better earning potential for Prep Cooks willing to commute from Tyler.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Tyler?
Several key factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in Tyler:
- Experience: More seasoned Prep Cooks often command higher pay as they bring efficiency and skills to the kitchen.
- Skill Set: Knowledge of various kitchen techniques, knife skills, and food handling can raise earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in higher-end restaurants or hotels typically offers better wages than fast-food or casual dining settings.
- Local Demand: In areas with a growing hospitality industry, salaries may increase due to competition for skilled Prep Cooks.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts sometimes include premium pay, positively impacting total compensation.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Tyler
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Tyler involves a few practical steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enrolling in programs like the Tyler Junior College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational cooking skills and kitchen experience.
- Get Food Safety Certified: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Begin by working in entry-level kitchen roles to build practical knowledge of food preparation and kitchen workflows.
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic and Team Skills: Kitchens rely heavily on teamwork and reliability, essential attributes for Prep Cooks.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Tyler
Several well-known establishments in Tyler regularly seek Prep Cooks:
- FD's GrillHouse
- Aspen Creek Grill
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Tyler Work At
Prep Cooks find employment across a variety of food service settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide regular hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally offer steady work but slightly lower wages than more formal dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher wages and benefits, reflecting the greater service expectations.
- Hospitality and Catering Services: These roles can vary greatly but sometimes include opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment often directly affects salary, with premium venues paying more for skilled Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tyler for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to Prep Cook, consider these related roles that share culinary responsibilities and skill sets:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which offer related culinary duties and varied opportunities for growth.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Tyler
Prep Cooks should be familiar with key labor regulations and tax responsibilities to safeguard their rights and finances.
- Information about Texas state labor laws and regulations is available on the Texas government website.
- Federal employment standards can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.