Prep Cook Salary in Vancouver, WA
Prep Cooks in Vancouver, WA, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Vancouver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for food service and culinary support roles in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Vancouver, WA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Vancouver can vary based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Vancouver Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes, focused on food preparation and kitchen support. Their income is typically limited to their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Vancouver vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $14.50 per hour on average, which comes to approximately $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Vancouver earn a higher hourly wage at $17.00 per hour and make around $35,360 per year. This difference reflects the local cost of living and demand for culinary workers in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Vancouver for Prep Cooks
Some of the highest-paying locations near Vancouver, WA, for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Vancouver: $18.00 per hour
- Fisher's Landing East: $17.50 per hour
These nearby areas offer slightly better pay opportunities, especially in parts of Downtown Vancouver, which tends to have a denser restaurant and hospitality industry presence.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Vancouver?
Multiple factors help determine a Prep Cook’s salary in Vancouver. Understanding these can help individuals maximize their earning potential.
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who demonstrate consistent kitchen skills often earn higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of specific cuisines or advanced knife skills may increase value to employers.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally earn more compared to those in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Education: Completion of culinary arts courses and food safety certifications can boost salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may offer premium pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Vancouver
Starting as a Prep Cook in Vancouver involves some key steps and training opportunities to improve employability and salary prospects.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Clark College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on cooking training tailored for aspiring culinary professionals.
- Consider Nearby Courses: The Portland Community College Culinary Assistant Program is another option for foundational culinary skills and kitchen operation knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Credentials: Acquiring a Food Handler's Permit required by Washington State is essential. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is highly respected nationally and improves job prospects.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions or internships provide valuable on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Vancouver
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Vancouver include:
- Sedgwick
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Vancouver Work At
Prep Cooks typically work across several types of food establishments in Vancouver, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer moderate wages and standard work hours.
- Fast Casual Chains: The fast-paced environment pays differently depending on company policies and volume.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger kitchens in hotels may provide higher wages and benefits.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: These require skilled prep work and typically pay more.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary, with more upscale venues generally paying higher wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Vancouver for Prep Cooks
If you're considering similar positions in the hospitality field, here are a few options that align well with being a Prep Cook:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef roles, all of which require kitchen skills and offer different salary ranges and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Vancouver
Prep Cooks should understand the labor laws and tax regulations governing their employment to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- Review federal labor standards at the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- Consult the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for state-specific labor laws and workplace safety guidelines.