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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (3505)

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/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 ...

Perry Restaurant

Prep Cook

Key West, FL

$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 ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items ... This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities: * Preparation, cooking, and servicing of ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (3461)

Madison, WI

$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

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

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

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 ...

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

Riverside, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/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 ...

New

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 ...

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

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 ...

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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 Jul 11, 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 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.
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Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Prep Cook (1918)

Prep Cook (1918)

FOOD FIGHT INC

Madison, WI

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Position: Prep Cook

Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly

Compensation: $16-  $19/hour 

Availability: Flexible. Part- and Full-time hours available. 

Benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance with Employer Contribution
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Wellness Benefits
  • And Much More 

About Position:

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, cutting meat etc. This position is responsible for undertaking basic cooking duties such as reducing sauces, parboiling food etc. The Prep cook prepares simple dishes such as salads, entrees etc. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and taking out trash.

Our Promise & Culture:

Food Fight Restaurant Group is an ambitious collection of professionals who are constantly focused on the growth and improvement of our teams. We are a passionate and dedicated group of hospitality leaders looking to work with like-minded professionals who want to grow both their restaurants and their careers, and we mean it. 100% of our executive leadership team started their Food Fight careers in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant leadership and minimize the most common stressors the restaurant industry is known for by:

  • Extending freedom and autonomy to our restaurant leaderships teams
  • Allowing flexible scheduling that both fits the needs of our managers and fulfills the needs of our restaurants
  • Offering continued education opportunities and tuition reimbursement to our managers
  • Providing opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Directly supporting the administrative functions of our restaurants

Apply Today:

If our culture and team sound like something you’d like to be a part of, apply today.

Job Requirements:

  • Experience working as aprep cook or in a similar capacity
  • Great communication skills
  • Good at working under pressure
  • Good team attitude
  • Ability to read and follow prep list
  • Proficient knife-handling skills
  • Available to work flexible shifts

Apply