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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mountain Creek Resort

Line Cook-Level 1

Vernon, NJ · On-site

$17/hr

Can produce noticeably more than an entry level prep cook. Advancement opportunity to Line Cook-Level 2. Team Member Responsibilities: * Responsible for preparing and cooking all food by following ...

MOUNTAIN CREEK

Line Cook-Level 1

Vernon, NJ

$17/hr

Can produce noticeably more than an entry level prep cook. Advancement opportunity to Line Cook-Level 2. Team Member Responsibilities: * Responsible for preparing and cooking all food by following ...

Fresco

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Brooks' House of Bar-B-Q

Prep Cook

Oneonta, NY · On-site

$16/hr

For the prep cook you will be on the team that supports the line cooks by preparing recipe ... This is a great entry level job to move up the ladder quickly. Brooks' BBQ is a family owned ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (3461)

Madison, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Clinton Township, MI

$14 - $17.75/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Burbank, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Kapolei, HI

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

Tahoe Donner

Night-Time Dishwasher (52344)

Truckee, CA · On-site

$19.68 - $27.16/hr

Tahoe Donner Association is looking for entry level Prep Cook/Dishwashers to join our Food & Beverage Team! The Prep Cook/Dishwasher assists in the preparation, service and restocking of all foods ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

San Francisco, CA

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Irvine, CA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Simi Valley, CA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Mililani, HI

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

Cpk

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Culver City, CA

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Manhattan Beach, CA

$15 - $19/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

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Entry Level Prep Cook information

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in the United States is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level prep cook?

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.

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.

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.

How to become an entry level prep cook with no experience?

To become an entry level prep cook with no experience, focus on developing basic cooking skills, understanding food safety practices, and gaining familiarity with kitchen tools. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level prep cook?

Entry level prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience is not required, but familiarity with kitchen safety, sanitation standards, and food handling is beneficial. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs?

The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Prep Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs include:

Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,628 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Line Cook-Level 1

Mountain Creek Resort

Vernon, NJ • On-site

$17/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Line Cook-Level 1 - Mountain Creek
Location: Vernon, NJ Reporting to: Executive Chef
SNOW Partners Mission Statement:
"To Enhance the Lives of our Team, Guests and Partners by Building Lasting Connections."
About Mountain Creek:
Mountain Creek, a four-season resort, offering skiing/snowboarding, bike park, waterpark, weddings, mountain coaster, restaurants, and lodge.
How the Line Cook-Level 1 works with the Team:
Cooks with some experience begin to obtain valuable training from our Chefs. Learning food safety, sanitary practices while improving on cooking skills and techniques. Can produce noticeably more than an entry level prep cook. Advancement opportunity to Line Cook-Level 2.
Team Member Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for preparing and cooking all food by following the company recipes and plating standards
  • Ensures proper food handling and sanitation standard procedures are followed. Begin to train on Servsafe standards
  • Able to efficiently handle prepping, cooking and cleaning simultaneously throughout a shift
  • Knowledge of making salad dressings and marinades. Training on making stocks and mother sauces.
  • Must be able to take direction and training from Chefs in a calm, professional manner
  • Familiar with handling, preparing, and cooking basic proteins such as steak, chicken, salmon, burger, sausage, and shrimp to necessary temperature and standards
  • Begin to train in proper food storage management.
  • Prepare visibly appealing meals, preparing all items in a timely manner
  • During banquets, execution of cocktail hour hot stations, buffet style service, breakfasts and other events.
  • During banquets, has the ability to slice and serve meat at our carving stations, and interact with guests

Team Member Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of basic knife skills; julienne, dice, and slice
  • Able to read a recipe, understand and execute with minimal assistance
  • 1-3 years of relevant Cook experience
  • Has the ability to work on the Salad, Fryer, and Grill stations independently
  • Able to efficiently handle prepping, cooking and cleaning simultaneously throughout a shift
  • Ability to execute multiple tasks, efficiently and in a timely manner
  • Must be 16 or older

Apply