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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Perry Restaurant

Prep Cook

Key West, FL · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Prep-line cook is an hourly role reporting to the Kitchen Manager and General Manager. You will be ... Experience: Entry level role of at least 6 months or more of cooking in a restaurant or high-volume ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Islamorada, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Miami Beach, FL

$14 - $17.75/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Miami Beach, FL

$14 - $17.75/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Hyatt

Entry Line Cook

Key West, FL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Cook 1 The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related ... Previous prep cook experience a plus * A true desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast paced ...

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Entry Line Cook

Key West, FL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Cook 1 The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related ... Previous prep cook experience a plus * A true desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast paced ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Pompano Beach, FL · On-site

$15/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

New

Raising Cane's

Cook

Pompano Beach, FL · On-site

$15/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Pompano Beach, FL · On-site

$15/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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All JobsEntry Level Prep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Florida

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Florida salary details

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$11

$15

How much do entry level prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Florida is $11.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.24 and $12.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level prep cooks?

Entry level prep cooks are kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring that all food items are ready for use. Prep cooks are essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in restaurants and other food establishments, especially during busy periods. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a culinary career, as it provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a willingness to follow recipes and food safety standards, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper food handling procedures, and sometimes a food handler's certification are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety, and support smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

How to become a prep cook?

To become a prep cook, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Gaining experience through entry-level kitchen jobs or culinary training programs can help develop necessary skills such as knife handling and food safety. On-the-job training is common, and a willingness to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends is often required.

What is the difference between Entry Level Prep Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level Prep CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsSimilar; may require more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, assisting with ingredient preparationCooking stations, actively preparing dishes during service
Employer UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMore experienced role, often with specific station responsibilities

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Prep Cook primarily focuses on preparing ingredients and assisting with basic tasks, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and manages specific stations during service. The prep cook position is ideal for those starting in the culinary industry, with opportunities to advance to a line cook role with experience.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level prep cooks often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy meal periods, maintaining consistency in food preparation, and adapting quickly to the fast-paced kitchen environment. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow recipes and instructions closely. Developing good knife skills and a strong sense of teamwork will also help new prep cooks work more efficiently and confidently as they gain experience.

How to get a prep cook job with no experience?

Entry level prep cook positions often do not require prior experience; instead, employers look for reliability, willingness to learn, and basic kitchen skills. Candidates can improve their chances by demonstrating a positive attitude, punctuality, and a willingness to follow instructions, and may consider completing food safety certifications to enhance their application.

Is a prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, a prep cook position is typically considered an entry level job in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. Many restaurants hire prep cooks as a starting point for a culinary career.

How to get into cooking with no experience?

Entry level prep cooks can start by gaining basic kitchen knowledge, such as food safety and knife skills, through online tutorials or cooking classes. Volunteering or working in fast-food or cafeteria settings can provide practical experience and help build foundational skills for a culinary career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:
Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $24,383 per year, or $11.7 per hour.

Prep Cook

Perry Restaurant

Key West, FL • On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Prep-line cook is an hourly role reporting to the Kitchen Manager and General Manager. You will be on time and reliable. Responsibilities include prep items and prepares ingredients as per the recipes, keep station clean, stock inventory in a fast-paced environment.

Role and Responsibilities:

  • Prepare ingredients according to recipes and prep lists by the Kitchen Manager
  • Wash, chop slice vegetables and other food items
  • Label food items properly.
  • Prepare simpler dishes such as salads.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workstation
  • Follow food safety and sanitation standards
  • Will fill in for the dishwasher as needed
  • Assist line cooks during service as needed
  • Measuring quantities of seasonings and other cooking ingredients
  • Stock and rotate inventory
  • Work efficiently in a fast paced kitchen

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Experience: Entry level role of at least 6 months or more of cooking in a restaurant or high-volume kitchen.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency with knife handling, and commercial kitchen equipment.
  • Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods (up to 90% of the shift), bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Communication: Strong verbal communication skills to work effectively with the team.
  • Certification: Food safety certification required within 30 days of employment

Typical Working/Physical Conditions:

  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time
  • Fast-paced, hot, and noisy kitchen environment.
  • Use of sharp objects
  • Strong manual dexterity
  • Ability to stoop, reach and climb, occasionally
  • Requires working evenings, weekends, and holidays

Work Schedule:

The Restaurant is opened seven days a week from 10 am – 10 pm. We strive to provide flexibility, whenever possible, and at the same time we must be able to maintain adequate staffing to meet the needs of our guests. Please note that working full or partial weekends is required.

Located at the Perry Marina, the Portside Bar & Grill offers our boaters, tourists and locals an authentic dining and hospitality experience in a casual and fun setting with views of the marina and sunsets! The pool side service offers boaters who are enjoying the Perry Marina amenities to also order drinks and food while lounging by the pool! Happy hours , nightly music and local happenings are part of our fabric to create a festive atmosphere for all!