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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Hurtado Barbecue

Cook / Prep Team Member

Mansfield, TX · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

We are always looking for experienced cooks and prep cooks to join our team. Our scratch kitchen ... Whether you're starting out in an entry-level position or have years of experience in the industry ...

Apply Early

Hurtado Barbecue

Cook / Prep Team Member

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

We are always looking for experienced cooks and prep cooks to join our team. Our scratch kitchen ... Whether you're starting out in an entry-level position or have years of experience in the industry ...

Apply Early

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX

$14.50 - $18/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX

$14.50 - $18/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX

$14.50 - $18/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

Zachry

Cook 1

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... is an entry-level or developing cook responsible for basic food preparation, workstation setup, and support of line cooks and chefs. This role assists with prep tasks, simple cooking duties ...

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All JobsEntry Level Prep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Texas

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Texas salary details

$8

$14

$19

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Texas is $14.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $16.11 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 Texas? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? Cities in Texas 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 Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,398 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Overnight Kitchen Team Member (Cook/Prep) #105

Overnight Kitchen Team Member (Cook/Prep) #105

The Texan Stores

Pecos, TX • On-site

$16 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 17 days ago

The Texan Stores rating

3.0

Company rating: 3.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overnight Kitchen Team Member (Cook/Prep) #105

The Texan Stores is seeking hard-working and highly reliable team members to join our kitchen team. We are known for the exceptional fresh made-to-order and grab and go foods we serve in our stores each day. Our kitchen team is responsible for executing the highest food service standards and processes in the industry.
We are currently hiring kitchen employees who will perform the following core duties:
  • Cooking
  • Baking
  • Food prep
  • Kitchen cleanliness and organization
Apply today if you would like to join our amazing team!
Job Type: Part-time
Entry Level Rate:
  • $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • On demand/Same day pay
Restaurant type:
  • Fast casual restaurant
Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Pecos, TX: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Application Question(s):
  • We have high standards and expect employees to show up on-time and ready to work hard every day they are scheduled. Do you agree to meet this standard?
  • Are you available to work the OVERNIGHT shift?
Shift availability:
  • Overnight Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
Note: All positions require the ability to deliver excellent customer service, good verbal communication skills, the ability to operate available equipment, basic mathematical and reasoning skills, and the ability to walk/stand and work in demanding environments for prolonged periods of time. Cross-training in different areas of the store may be required.

What The Texan Stores employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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