Line Cook vs. Prep Cook: Roles, Salaries & More

Over the next decade, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% growth in employment for cooks, with 480,600 new openings annually. This increase highlights the ample career opportunities available in restaurants ranging from family-owned diners to upscale hotel kitchens.

Among the many roles in the culinary world, Line Cooks and Prep Cooks are foundational to restaurant success. Understanding the differences between these roles is essential for those starting or advancing their culinary careers.

Line Cook vs. Prep Cook: Key Differences

1. Seniority: Line Cooks hold a more senior role, managing specific stations, while Prep Cooks focus on ingredient preparation.
2. Experience: Line Cooks typically have more training and experience, often starting their careers as Prep Cooks.
3. Work Sequence: Prep Cooks work before service to prepare ingredients, while Line Cooks handle cooking during service hours.
4. Career Growth: Prep Cooks often transition to Line Cook positions, with opportunities to advance further as Sous Chefs or Head Chefs.
5. Salary: Line Cooks earn more due to their experience and role complexity.

What Does a Line Cook Do?

A Line Cook operates a specific station in the kitchen, preparing and assembling dishes before they’re served. Stations may include frying, grilling, roasting or creating soups and sauces. Line Cooks are cross-trained to assist across different stations when needed, ensuring seamless food preparation.

Key responsibilities:

• Prepare food according to station assignments and recipes.
• Pass dishes to the next station for completion.
• Maintain clean and organized cooking surfaces.
• Ensure food storage meets safety and sanitation standards.

Skills needed:

• Time management and attention to detail.
• Strong communication for coordinating with teammates.
• Ability to handle high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

What Does a Prep Cook Do?

A Prep Cook handles the groundwork for food preparation. They ensure all ingredients are ready for Line Cooks to prepare dishes efficiently during service.

Key responsibilities:

• Wash, chop and measure ingredients.
• Manage kitchen inventory and organize ingredients.
• Prepare components like sauces and seasonings.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen.

Skills needed:

• Strong organizational skills.
• Physical stamina for repetitive tasks.
• Attention to detail for precise measurements and preparation.

Salary Comparison: National & City Averages

Role	National Average	New York City	Miami	Chicago	Los Angeles
Line Cook	$34K–$38K	$39K–$43K	$36K–$40K	$35K–$39K	$38K–$43K
Prep Cook	$32K–$36K	$34K–$38K	$31K–$35K	$34K–$38K	$32K–$36K

How to Become a Line Cook

If you want to become a line cook, you will typically need:

• High school diploma or culinary school certificate.
• Food handler safety certification (varies by state).
• Key skills: physical stamina, attention to detail and time management.

Tips for Success:

• Practice station-specific techniques.
• Organize your tools and prepare early.
• Master the menu and prioritize special requests.

How to Become a Prep Cook

If you want to become a prep cook, you may not be required to have an advanced level of education, although you may need a food handler safety certification.

However, landing a job as a prep cook does require certain skills, such as:

• Basic understanding of cooking techniques.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Food safety certification may be required.

Tips for Success:

• Create detailed prep lists.
• Use tools like parchment paper for efficiency.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

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Considering a career in hospitality as a Line Cook or a Prep Cook?

For more information on the employee hiring process and post-interview follow-up call etiquette to prepare for an upcoming interview, explore our blogs on these topics.

Or explore the best-paying jobs in restaurants to find more info on leading restaurant roles across the country.

Key Takeaways

• Line Cook: Senior role focused on preparing dishes during service, higher salary and potential for rapid career advancement.
• Prep Cook: Entry-level role focusing on ingredient preparation, ideal for gaining experience in the kitchen.
• Career growth opportunities abound, from Sous Chef to Head Chef positions.
• Salaries vary by location, with higher pay in high-demand cities like New York and Los Angeles.