Prep Cook Salary in Waco, TX
Prep Cooks in Waco, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job outlook for Prep Cooks in Waco is positive, with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a steady demand for food preparation workers in the region’s bustling culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Waco varies widely depending on experience and work setting. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Waco Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their responsibilities mostly involve behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is primarily determined by their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Waco earn slightly less on average, making about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This difference reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas that offer higher wages for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Waco: $15.50 per hour
- Baylor University Area: $17.60 per hour
Working near the Baylor University Area offers some of the best compensation for Prep Cooks close to Waco, possibly due to the demand from campus dining and surrounding establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Waco?
Several factors determine the salary level of a Prep Cook in Waco:
- Experience and Skillset: More years of experience and proficiency with various kitchen tasks typically result in higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks in upscale restaurants or catering companies often earn more than those working in fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Food safety and handling certifications can make candidates more attractive to employers and potentially lead to better wages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night, weekend, or holiday shifts may include differential pay.
- Local Demand: Areas with a dense restaurant scene or large food service operations may offer higher wages due to competition.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Waco
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Waco usually involves foundational culinary training and relevant certifications.
Educational programs such as the Texas State Technical College Culinary Arts Program and McLennan Community College Culinary Program provide hands-on training and essential knowledge for entry-level kitchen roles.
Obtaining food safety certifications is also crucial. The Food Handler Certification, required by Texas, ensures you understand safe food preparation techniques. The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is also highly regarded by employers.
Gaining experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level kitchen positions will further strengthen your qualifications and help secure a role as a Prep Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Waco
Some of the top employers seeking Prep Cooks in Waco include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Waco Work At
Prep Cooks in Waco can find employment at various types of food service establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often offer entry-level opportunities but typically pay less.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually pay a bit more and provide diverse kitchen experience.
- Catering Companies: Can offer higher pay and occasion-based work.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide stable employment and benefits with higher wages.
The type of establishment has a strong impact on salary, with more upscale or specialized kitchens generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in career paths similar to Prep Cook, consider related hospitality jobs that involve food preparation and kitchen support.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, offering varying responsibilities and salary ranges in the kitchen and food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Waco
Prep Cooks working in Waco should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their employment.
- Visit the Texas Workforce Commission for information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- For food safety regulations and certification requirements, consult the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Federal labor laws and guidelines are available from the U.S. Department of Labor.