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Prep Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant

Prep Chef

Lockport, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Join Our Team as a Prep Chef at Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant! Are you passionate about food and looking to start your culinary journey? At Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant in Lockport, IL, we ...

New

Roundup River Ranch

Prep Chef

Gypsum, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Description JOB IDENTIFICATION Title Prep Chef Department Food Service Location Camp, Office-based Reports To Food Service Manager Status Part-time, Seasonal Classification Non-exempt Schedule ...

The Inn at Cedar Falls Inc

Prep Chef

Logan, OH · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

We are looking for a self-driven individual to Join our culinary team as a Prep Chef in a full-time or part-time capacity. This position will be scheduled from 4:00 am - 8:00 am and prepare items for ...

Nami Nori Atlantic Park

Prep Chef

Virginia Beach, VA

$13.50 - $17/hr

The prep chef is responsible for providing culinary support to the kitchen in the preparation and presentation of all dishes. These responsibitlies include: * Creating and completing daily prep lists

Nami Nori

Prep Chef

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

The prep chef is responsible for providing culinary support to the kitchen in the preparation and presentation of all dishes. These responsibitlies include: * Creating and completing daily prep lists

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Nami Nori

Prep Chef

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

The prep chef is responsible for providing culinary support to the kitchen in the preparation and presentation of all dishes. These responsibitlies include: * Creating and completing daily prep lists

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Highly Likely

Prep Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

About the Prep Chef position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

The Claw House

Prep Cook

Murrells Inlet, SC · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

About the Prep Cook position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

The Claw House

Prep Cook

Murrells Inlet, SC · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

About the Prep Cook position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

The Claw House

Prep Cook

Murrells Inlet, SC · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

About the Prep Cook position We are seeking an experienced Prep Chef to join our company. You will be required to assist in making the preparation of food easier by following the prep list. You will ...

Hawksmoor - Chicago

Prep Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Reporting to the Chef de Cuisine, we'relooking for a brand-new Prep Cook to join our team and open our second internationalrestaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careers with Hawksmoor Group ...

Hawksmoor - US

Prep Chef

Chicago, IL

$20 - $24/hr

Reporting to the Chef de Cuisine, we'relooking for a brand-new Prep Cook to join our team and open our second internationalrestaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careers with Hawksmoor Group ...

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Prep Chef information

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How much do prep chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for prep chef 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 a prep chef?

Prep chefs, also known as preparation cooks or prep cooks, are culinary professionals responsible for preparing ingredients and basic components of dishes before they are finished by line cooks or chefs. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, preparing sauces, and ensuring that the kitchen is organized and stocked for service. Prep chefs play a crucial role in keeping a restaurant kitchen running smoothly and efficiently by ensuring that everything is ready to go during busy meal periods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prep chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prep Chef, you need strong knife skills, food safety knowledge, and experience with basic culinary techniques, often gained through culinary school or on-the-job training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and adherence to sanitation standards like ServSafe certification are typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are essential soft skills that help maintain kitchen efficiency. These abilities ensure the kitchen runs smoothly, ingredients are prepped accurately, and food quality and safety standards are consistently met.

What are some common challenges faced by prep chefs, and how can they be managed?

Prep chefs often work in fast-paced environments, managing large volumes of food preparation while meeting strict quality and safety standards. One common challenge is balancing speed with accuracy, as mistakes can impact the entire kitchen's workflow. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and clear communication with other kitchen staff help prep chefs stay on track and support smooth kitchen operations. Embracing these practices can also pave the way for advancement to more senior kitchen roles.

What is the difference between Prep Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectPrep ChefLine Cook
Primary ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, chopping, measuring, and setting up stationsCooking dishes during service, following recipes and timing
Work EnvironmentPre-shift prep areas, back of house kitchensHot line during service, fast-paced kitchen environment
CredentialsBasic culinary training, food safety certifications often requiredSimilar credentials, often with more experience in cooking techniques

Prep Chefs focus on preparing ingredients and setting up stations before service, while Line Cooks execute the cooking during service. Both roles require culinary training and food safety knowledge, but Prep Chefs typically work in prep areas, whereas Line Cooks work on the hot line during busy hours.

Do prep chefs make good money?

Prep chefs typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced prep chefs working in busy kitchens or high-end establishments can earn higher wages, and some may receive benefits or tips. Overall, prep chef salaries are generally considered modest compared to more advanced culinary roles.

How much do prep chefs get paid?

Prep chefs typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and establishment. Entry-level prep cooks may start at the lower end, while those with more skills or working in high-cost areas can earn higher wages. Many prep chefs work part-time or full-time shifts in restaurant kitchens, often requiring basic culinary skills and food safety knowledge.

What does a prep chef do?

A prep chef is responsible for preparing ingredients and components needed for cooking, such as chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and organizing supplies. They work in the kitchen to ensure that dishes can be assembled efficiently and often assist with basic cooking tasks under the supervision of chefs or cooks.
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For Prep Chef jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Prep Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prep Chef 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.

Prep Chef

Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant

Lockport, IL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Join Our Team as a Prep Chef at Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant!

Are you passionate about food and looking to start your culinary journey? At Mamma Onesta's Italian Restaurant in Lockport, IL, we take pride in serving authentic Italian dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We’re looking for a dedicated Prep Chef to join our kitchen team and help us create memorable dining experiences for our guests.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Prep Chef, you’ll play a key role in ensuring our kitchen runs smoothly. Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing ingredients, such as chopping vegetables, portioning proteins, and measuring spices.
- Assisting the kitchen team in maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
- Following food safety and hygiene guidelines to uphold our high standards.
- Supporting the chefs with basic cooking tasks as needed.
- Ensuring all prep work is completed efficiently to meet service demands.

What We’re Looking For

No prior experience? No problem! We’re happy to welcome individuals who are eager to learn and grow in the culinary world. Here’s what we value in our ideal candidate:
- A passion for food and an interest in Italian cuisine.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions.
- A team-oriented attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed.
- Dependability and a proactive work ethic.

Why Join Mamma Onesta's?

At Mamma Onesta's, we’re more than just a restaurant—we’re a family. We believe in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member feels valued. When you join us, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to delivering exceptional food and service to our community.

Ready to Start Your Culinary Journey?

If you’re excited to take the first step in your culinary career, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and become part of the Mamma Onesta’s family. Let’s create something delicious together!


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