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Line Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soul & Smoke

Line/Prep Cook

Evanston, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are seeking an experienced, capable, and reliable Line/Prep Cook to join the team as we open our expanded restaurant at the end of August. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated, detail-oriented ...

SA KKBM LLC

Line/Prep Cook

Hollywood Park, TX · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux Line/Prep Cook Walk-On's has the perfect gameday atmosphere with a taste of Louisiana to keep you wanting more. Our passion for food and fun are on display every day, and ...

PINX LLC

Line/Prep Cook

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Kitchen Line/Prep Cook Location: San Leandro, CA Company: Pinx LLC dba Pinx Catering About Us: At Pinx Catering , we don't just serve food -- we create unforgettable experiences. Based in San Leandro ...

Compass Group

Line/Prep Cook

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Line/Prep Cook Pay Range : $17-18/hr We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1547284 The advertised program is an AI ...

Compass Group

Line/Prep Cook

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Line/Prep Cook Pay Range : $17-18/hr We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1547284 . The advertised program is an AI ...

Compass Group

Line/Prep Cook

Corvallis, OR

$17 - $18/hr

Line/Prep Cook Pay Range : $17-18/hr We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1547284 . The advertised program is an AI ...

Gator's Dockside of Lake City

Line/Prep Cook

Lake City, FL

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Description We Are Now Hiring Line/Prep Cooks!! Gator's Dockside Restaurants is composed of a team of fun, diverse, and hardworking individuals who live and lead by our "Do it R.I.G.H.T.!" core ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Mineola, TX · On-site

$12 - $14.75/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Palestine, TX · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Mabank, TX · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Canton, TX · On-site

$11.75 - $14.50/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Longview, TX · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Kilgore, TX · On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Athens, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: Prepare and assemble ingredients according to recipes ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Tyler, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant

Line/Prep Cook

Denison, TX · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

As a line/prep cook, you will ensure all food is prepared and cooked to order and meets quality and presentation standards. Key Responsibilities: * Prepare and assemble ingredients according to ...

Gator's Dockside

Line/Prep Cook

Lake City, FL · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

We Are Now Hiring Line/Prep Cooks!! Gator's Dockside Restaurants is composed of a team of fun, diverse, and hardworking individuals who live and lead by our "Do it R.I.G.H.T.!" core values. We use ...

Gator's Dockside

Line/Prep Cook

Ocala, FL · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

We Are Now Hiring Line/Prep Cooks! Gator's Dockside Restaurants is composed of a team of fun, diverse, and hardworking individuals who live and lead by our "Do it R.I.G.H.T.!" core values. We use ...

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LINE PREP COOK information

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$9

$15

$21

How much do line prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for line prep cook in the United States is $15.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a line prep cook?

Line prep cooks are kitchen professionals responsible for preparing ingredients and assembling dishes according to restaurant recipes and standards. They work on the 'line,' a station in the kitchen where food is cooked and plated before being served. Their tasks often include chopping vegetables, portioning ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring that all items are ready for the chefs and other line cooks. Line prep cooks play a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and consistency during meal service.

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

To thrive as a Line Prep Cook, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, knife skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications, such as a ServSafe certificate, are commonly required. 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, maintain kitchen safety standards, and support smooth kitchen operations during busy service periods.

What are some common challenges faced by line prep cooks during busy service periods?

Line prep cooks often experience high-pressure situations, especially during meal rushes when quick and accurate food preparation is crucial. Maintaining organization, multitasking effectively, and communicating clearly with the kitchen team are essential to keep up with orders and ensure food quality. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or special dietary requests can also be challenging, but these experiences help build valuable skills in time management and teamwork.

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

AspectLine Prep CookLine Cook
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, chopping, portioning, and setting up stationsCooking dishes, assembling plates, and executing menu items during service
Skills & CertificationsBasic culinary skills, food safety certifications (e.g., ServSafe)Advanced cooking skills, experience in various cooking techniques
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, early shifts, less pressure during serviceFront-line during service, high-pressure environment

While both roles work in the kitchen, a Line Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and plates dishes during service. The Prep Cook's role is essential for smooth operations, but the Line Cook handles the core cooking tasks. Both positions require food safety knowledge and culinary skills, but the Line Cook typically has more experience and technical cooking expertise.

Can I become a line prep cook with no experience?

Yes, many restaurants hire entry-level line prep cooks with little or no experience, as the role often provides on-the-job training. Basic skills such as knife handling, understanding food safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are helpful for starting in this position.

Do line prep cooks make a lot of money?

Line prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that is close to minimum wage or slightly above, depending on experience and location. They usually earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with higher pay possible in some regions or establishments, but overall, the role is considered an entry-level position with limited earning potential compared to more advanced culinary roles.

Do line prep cooks make money?

Line prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with the national average ranging from minimum wage up to $15-$20 per hour. Some may receive tips or benefits, and wages can increase with skill development and tenure in the role.

Where do line prep cooks make the most money?

Line prep cooks tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living, such as major metropolitan areas or cities with a strong culinary industry. States or cities with a high demand for restaurant staff and a competitive labor market often offer increased pay rates for prep cooks. Experience, certifications, and working in upscale or high-volume establishments can also influence earning potential.

What cities are hiring for Line Prep Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Line Prep Cook job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Line Prep Cook jobs?

The top employers for Line Prep Cook jobs are:

What states have the most Line Prep Cook jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Line Prep Cook jobs?

For Line Prep Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

LINE PREP COOK jobs near you
Infographic showing various Line Prep Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,245 per year, or $16 per hour.

Line/Prep Cook

Soul & Smoke

Evanston, IL • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced, capable, and reliable Line/Prep Cook to join the team as we open our expanded restaurant at the end of August. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated, detail-oriented, energetic cook with strong time management and communication skills.  Full-time or part-time position, must have evening/weekend availability.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Prepare food items by cutting, chopping, mixing, smoking, grilling, sautéing, and other cooking methods according to specified recipes and standards.
  • Maintain cleanliness that complies with food sanitation requirements by properly handling food and ensuring correct storage.
  • Perform inventory checks and complete food storage logs as required.
  • Prep and send out orders in a fast-paced setting.
  • Help the catering and production teams as needed.
  • Break down and clean the station at the close.
  • Communicate with coworkers proactively and professionally.
  • Maintain a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude.
  • Garmo/grill/saute stations available.

Requirements:
  • Must have the ability to work evenings and weekends and be flexible when necessary.
  • 2 years of line/prep experience - some fine dining and expediting experience preferred.
  • Food handler's certificate is preferred.
  • Reliable and timely.
  • Ability to multitask and keep organized.
  • Ability to walk/stand for extended periods and lift to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
  • Driver's license preferred, for potential food truck work, or occasionally taking items in company van to our 2 Chicago locations - smoked meats and prep come from Evanston location daily.

Pay/Benefits:
  • $17-22+ hourly to start, plus pooled revenue share ($4-6+/hour additional).
  • Staff meal, dining and catering discounts.
  • Paid leave.
  • Health, dental insurance, Aflac and retirement savings available for full-time staff after 90 days.