Prep Cook in Winston-Salem, NC
Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $17.35 per hour, translating to about $694.00 per week, $3,007.33 per month, and $36,088.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for those in this role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Winston-Salem varies by experience level and employer. Below is an overview of wages based on different stages of career progression.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.35 | $694.00 | $3,007.33 | $36,088.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.30 | $772.00 | $3,330.67 | $39,968.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their work primarily takes place in the kitchen away from direct customer interaction. Their income mainly comes from their hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
On a national scale, Prep Cooks earn roughly $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem earn higher wages, with an average of $17.35 per hour and an annual salary of $36,088. This higher pay reflects local market demand, cost of living differences, and employer standards in Winston-Salem.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Prep Cooks
Salary can vary within areas near Winston-Salem, with some neighborhoods offering better pay rates:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- West End: $17.50 per hour
These areas may offer better compensation due to being culinary hubs or having higher cost-of-living adjustments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Winston-Salem:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with specialized skills such as working with particular cuisines or equipment often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, large catering companies, or hospitals may offer better pay compared to casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts sometimes come with extra pay bonuses or shift differentials.
- Local Cost of Living: Areas within Winston-Salem that have a higher cost of living or are more competitive markets may offer improved salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Winston-Salem
There are several steps and educational paths to pursuing a career as a Prep Cook in Winston-Salem:
- Obtain relevant culinary training through programs like the Forsyth Tech Culinary Arts Program, which prepares students for various food service roles and introduces foundational kitchen skills.
- Consider further education such as the Wake Forest University Hospitality Management program to gain knowledge of operational aspects of hospitality and culinary services.
- Earn essential certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is widely recognized and demonstrates awareness of food safety standards.
- State-specific certifications like the North Carolina Food Protection Manager Certification are valuable for those seeking supervisory positions or advanced roles within the kitchen.
- Gain hands-on experience in kitchens, starting in entry-level roles that provide practical skills and exposure to culinary environments.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem
Several well-known employers in Winston-Salem actively hire Prep Cooks:
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
- First Watch
- Morrison Healthcare
- IHOP
- Popeyes
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem Work At
Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem find employment at a variety of establishments including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer a fast-paced environment with consistent scheduling, though pay may be moderate.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Large institutions such as Atrium Health offer steady employment with potentially better benefits and pay.
- Catering Services and Banquet Halls: These often demand high-volume food preparation skills and can provide varying pay scales depending on the size and prestige.
- Fast Food Chains: Typically entry-level jobs that provide important experience but usually come with lower wages.
The type of establishment significantly impacts pay, with upscale or institutional kitchens often paying more than casual or fast-food outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring similar roles related to the Prep Cook position, here are some connected career options to consider:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter positions, which share similar kitchen duties and food preparation responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Winston-Salem
Prep Cooks should be informed about local and federal labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper workplace rights and financial compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand national employment standards.
- Check the State of North Carolina's official website for state-specific labor laws, wage details, and work regulations.