Prep Cook Jobs – March 2025 Job Listings
Our list of Prep Cook jobs in the U.S. includes job ads that offer higher salaries than the national average, along with flexibility and benefits that will help you stay motivated to pursue your passion for the culinary arts.
552 Prep Cook Jobs in the United States
Prep Cook is an entry-level job ideal for those looking to start a career in the culinary industry. Aside from the minimal experience, education and skills requirements, it offers many opportunities to learn, network and grow in the field.
Prep Cooks can work in different industries. Aside from restaurants, they can also be employed by events agencies, catering companies and hotels. Check out our list of Prep Cook jobs below and see if one aligns with your career goals.
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Line Cook/Prep Cook
Prep Cook
Line Cook ("Cocinero/a de Linea")
Line Cook / Prep Cook
PREP COOK (FULL TIME)
Cruise Ship Staff – Virtual Job Fair @ Norwegian Cruise Line!!
Prep Cook (Dining Services III) at Lookout Mountain Campus in Golden
Prep Cook job
Prep Cook job
Prep Cook – SSH
Prep Cook Employment in the US
The demand for Cooks, including Prep Cooks, is increasing in the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 6% growth in Cook jobs from 2022 to 2032. This is equivalent to an average of 17,520 job openings each year.
Prep Cook Average Salary in the US
Prep Cooks earn an average of $32,427 per year or $16 per hour.
Requirements To Work as a Prep Cook in the US
Here are the most common requirements of Prep Cook employers in the U.S.:
- Must be at least 16 years old: Legal age varies per state. In some states people as young as 14 can work part-time, but generally-speaking, 16 is the minimum working age without restrictions for non-hazardous jobs as per the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Ability to provide legal documentation to work in the U.S.: As part of the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act, new employees are required to submit proof that they’re authorized to work in the country. This includes an unexpired foreign passport with an I-551 stamp, a permanent resident card or an unexpired employment authorization card.
- High school diploma: Some employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED as the minimum educational background.
- ServSafe certification: ServSafe certification proves that you’re knowledgeable in food safety practices.
Prep Cook Jobs FAQ
Prep Cooks often enjoy benefits such as health insurance, free meals, 401(k) matching and paid time off.
No, that isn’t a requirement to work as a Prep Cook. Even Chefs can be employed without a culinary degree.
New York City ($41,255) and Los Angeles ($40,819) are some of the major U.S. cities that offer Prep Cooks the highest salaries.
How We Chose Our Prep Cook Jobs
We chose the jobs according to the following:
- Competitive salaries: We prioritized jobs from employers that offer a salary range of $15 to $27 per hour.
- Comprehensive employee benefits: The majority of the jobs featured in this article offer a 401(k) plan, free meals and education assistance to supplement the base pay.
- Variety in job type: We made sure to include both part-time and full-time options to provide you flexibility.
