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Cooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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How much do cooks prep cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks prep cooks in Washington, DC is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cook?

Cooks and prep cooks are culinary professionals who work in kitchens to prepare and cook food. Prep cooks focus on preparing ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring, ensuring everything is ready for the main cooking process. Cooks, on the other hand, handle the actual cooking of dishes, following recipes and presentation standards. Both roles require attention to detail, good time management, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Together, they help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook?

To thrive as a Cook or Prep Cook, you need solid food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, basic knife handling techniques, and adherence to food safety certifications like ServSafe are important. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth workflow in fast-paced culinary environments.

What are some common challenges faced by prep cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Prep cooks often work in fast-paced settings where managing time efficiently and maintaining attention to detail can be challenging. They must juggle multiple tasks, such as chopping ingredients, preparing sauces, and organizing supplies, all while adhering to strict food safety standards. Communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent delays during service. Adapting to changing menus or last-minute requests is also a frequent part of the role, requiring flexibility and quick thinking.

What is the difference between Cooks Prep Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectPrep CooksLine Cooks
ResponsibilitiesPrepare ingredients, wash, chop, and set up stationsCook dishes during service, follow recipes, and manage station
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often preferredSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep areas, early shifts, less pressureFront-line cooking stations, during service hours, high-pressure environment
Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, catering, and hospitalityEssential in restaurant kitchens, culinary establishments

Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, while Line Cooks handle cooking dishes during service. Both roles require similar credentials and work in busy kitchen environments, but their responsibilities differ based on the stage of food preparation.

Do prep cooks make good money?

Prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and establishment, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced prep cooks or those working in high-end restaurants may earn higher wages, and some may receive tips or benefits. Overall, the pay is generally considered modest compared to more advanced culinary roles.

How much do prep cooks make a year?

Prep cooks typically earn an annual salary ranging from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Many prep cooks are paid hourly, with wages often between $10 and $15 per hour, and may receive benefits or overtime pay based on the employer's policies.

What qualifications do I need to be a prep cook?

Prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions are often required. Some employers may also value food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

What are popular job titles related to Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Washington, DC?

For Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Washington, DC are:

Cooks Prep Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Prep Cooks job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 58% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 62% Physical, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,955 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Prep Cooks, Line Cooks, Dishwashers - Tatte Ashburn

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Tatte began in 2007 with a passion for baking and a belief that well-crafted food brings people together. Today, we are a design-forward bakery and café known for handcrafted food, exceptional coffee, warm hospitality, and beautiful spaces that invite connection and everyday ritual. 

WHY TATTE

At Tatte, hospitality matters. We are looking for people who share our mission to inspire, care for, and nurture life every day. Our teams take pride in craftsmanship, support one another, and create welcoming experiences that make guests feel at home.

THE ROLE

Savory team members make all our dishes from scratch, with a deep commitment to uncompromising quality and craftsmanship. They are passionate about food and genuine hospitality and work together as a team to prepare dishes in accordance with Tatte guidelines to ensure the highest quality while adhering to recipe and sanitation standards.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

We expect our savory team members to:

  • Have a desire to help where needed and work as part of a team
  • Possess a passion for cooking with a keen eye for freshness, quality, and cleanliness
  • Live Tatte's core values and help Tatte deliver on its mission
  • Have flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including weekends, holidays, and afternoons/evenings
  • Ideally have at least 1 year of experience successfully working in a fast-paced kitchen

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Prep Cook

  • Follow prep lists created by chefs
  • Label and stock all cooking ingredients
  • Complete all tasks, in order, on the prep list from the Head Chef or other kitchen manager
  • Wash, chop, and sort ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and meats
  • Measure quantities of seasonings and other cooking ingredients
  • Adhere to all relevant nutrition and sanitary regulations and standards
  • Keep track of ingredient inventory and collaborate with other kitchen and management staff to order resupply
  • Learn the cooking methods and techniques employed in the kitchen
  • Ensure all food items are properly stored and easily accessible
  • Supervise food and cooling room temperatures
  • Maintain a clean, orderly, and sanitized kitchen
  • Assist chefs in preparing food and attend to any culinary tasks that arise
  • Other duties as assigned

Line Cook

  • Execute techniques under the direction of the Sous Chef and Executive Chef
  • Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality, and presentation standards
  • Prepare ingredients by portioning, chopping, weighing, measuring, and mixing ingredients
  • Operate ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, fryers, and other kitchen equipment
  • Ensure the correct temperature of appliances and food
  • Set up and break down workstations and prepare for upcoming shifts
  • Wash and disinfect kitchen surfaces, tables, tools, knives, and equipment
  • Follow all company safety and security policies and procedures
  • Ensure adherence to quality expectations and standards
  • Assist chefs in preparing food and attend to any culinary tasks that arise
  • Other duties as assigned

Dishwasher

  • Responsible for the proper care and maintenance of the dish machine
  • Keep a clean supply of dishware, glassware, silverware, utensils, and cookware throughout each shift
  • Thrive in a fast-paced work environment while adhering to cleanliness and sanitation standards for the kitchen and dish area
  • Other duties as assigned

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Able to grasp and reach overhead
  • Must be able to lift, move, and carry 50+ lbs.
  • Must be able to work 8+ hours a day on your feet

OUR BENEFITS & PERKS

  • Competitive Pay (varies by role and experience) 
    • Dishwashers: $18.50–$20.10/hour
    • Prep Cooks: $18.75–$21.00/hour
    • Line Cooks: $19.00–$23.00/hour
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation for full-time team members
  • Paid sick time
  • Flexible schedules with no late nights
  • 50% meal discount and 2 free drinks per shift
  • Free mental health support
  • Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • An inclusive community that offers potential for growth 

Learn more about us at tattebakery.com.

Join us on our journey to create something special!

Please note that Tatte is an E-Verify employer.