Prep Cook Salary in Wichita Falls, TX
Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $12.09 per hour, which translates to about $483.60 per week, $2,095.60 per month, and $25,147.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the culinary sector in this region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Wichita Falls, TX?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Wichita Falls varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a general salary breakdown across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.89 | $395.60 | $1,710.67 | $20,528.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.09 | $483.60 | $2,095.60 | $25,147.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.79 | $591.60 | $2,578.80 | $30,801.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their job mainly involves kitchen preparation and support tasks. Their compensation is primarily based on their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Wichita Falls vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.56 per hour, which amounts to about $34,444.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls earn a lower hourly rate of $12.09 and annual salary of $25,147.20, reflecting regional living cost differences and local market dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita Falls for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- Southwest: $14.00 per hour
These neighborhoods tend to have establishments that pay better wages, possibly due to higher demand or upscale dining options.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Wichita Falls?
Several factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Wichita Falls:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced culinary skills or multitasking abilities can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay better salaries compared to fast-casual or chain restaurants.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary education or food safety certifications may boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include premium pay rates.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Wichita Falls
Here are some steps aspiring Prep Cooks can take to start a successful career in Wichita Falls:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Vernon College offer practical training essential for Prep Cooks.
- Consider Hospitality Courses: The Hospitality Management Program at Midwestern State University includes valuable coursework that benefits kitchen staff and culinary workers.
- Obtain Key Certifications: A Food Handler's Permit is mandatory in Texas for food service workers. Additionally, the nationally-recognized ServSafe Certification demonstrates competence in food safety.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Seeking entry-level positions in busy kitchens provides practical skills and exposure to culinary operations.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls
Several major restaurant chains and establishments actively hire Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls:
- Olive Garden
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
- IHOP
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments, each influencing pay scales differently.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer moderate pay but provide excellent experience for culinary beginners.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often characterized by higher employee turnover and standardized operations, these may provide hourly wages on the lower end.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality establishments generally provide higher wages and better benefits.
- Specialty or Upscale Restaurants: These employers might compensate Prep Cooks more generously based on the complexity of menu items and skills required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita Falls for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, here are some similar hospitality positions worth considering:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Cook—positions that share culinary skills and kitchen responsibilities similar to a Prep Cook's role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Wichita Falls
It is important for Prep Cooks to comply with labor laws and understand tax obligations specific to Texas and the federal government.
- For information on state regulations, visit the Texas government website.
- Details on federal labor laws and standards can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.