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Prep Chef Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Buca Prep Cook

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The Prep Cook will work closely with chefs and other kitchen staff to prepare ingredients for various dishes, ensuring that all items are fresh and properly stored. By effectively managing time and ...

Homshuk - Prep Cook

Apple Valley, MN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Ultimately, the Prep Cook helps create a foundation for the kitchen's success by preparing ingredients that allow chefs to focus on cooking and plating dishes promptly and consistently. Minimum ...

Now Hiring - Sous Chef Northland Country Club | Duluth, MN About the Opportunity Northland Country ... Assists in the prep and execution of the Short Order Station, catering, hot food production, or ...

Sous Chef

Duluth, MN · On-site

$33 - $35/hr

Now Hiring - Sous Chef Northland Country Club | Duluth, MN About the Opportunity Northland Country ... Assists in the prep and execution of the Short Order Station, catering, hot food production, or ...

Sous Chef - Rosalia NE

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Chef de Cuisine Salary Range: $50,000 - $70,000 per year This role reports to the Chef de Cuisine ... Overseeing all prep cooks, line cooks, and dishwashers of restaurant Coordinate cooks, and all ...

Executive Chef - Therese

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Culinary Director and Corporate Culinary TeamPosition SummaryThe Executive Chef is responsible for ... Create prep lists, station maps, training guides, and allergen information for new dishes.

Sous Chef - Minari

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overseeing all prep cooks, line cooks, and dishwashers of restaurantCoordinate cooks, and all staff ... other chefs are on vacation, sick or in the event of a call in. Sometimes this may require coming ...

Prep Cook

Mcgregor, MN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Minnesota National Golf Club & Resort is seeking a dependable and motivated Part-Time Prep Cook to ... Support cooks and chefs with additional tasks as needed Qualifications: * Previous kitchen ...

Sous Chef - Porzana

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Overseeing all prep cooks, line cooks, and dishwashers of restaurantCoordinate cooks, and all staff ... other chefs are on vacation, sick or in the event of a call in. Sometimes this may require coming ...

Prep Cook

Woodbury, MN · On-site

$20/hr

Chef's knives, etc. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: This is an hourly paid position. Days and ... Our Prep Cooks carry out our Vision of Being the Leading Purveyor of the Spirit of Hospitality by ...

Sous Chef

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Ensure MN Health Department food safety standards in all stages of prep, storage, and transport ... Help Chefs order all ingredients for events * Check orders in and keep walk-in, freezers, and dry ...

Sous Chef

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Ensure MN Health Department food safety standards in all stages of prep, storage, and transport ... Help Chefs order all ingredients for events * Check orders in and keep walk-in, freezers, and dry ...

Sous Chef

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Ensure MN Health Department food safety standards in all stages of prep, storage, and transport ... Help Chefs order all ingredients for events * Check orders in and keep walk-in, freezers, and dry ...

Sous Chef

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Ensure MN Health Department food safety standards in all stages of prep, storage, and transport ... Help Chefs order all ingredients for events * Check orders in and keep walk-in, freezers, and dry ...

Prep Cook

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Execute tasks assigned by Chefs and Sous Chefs with professionalism and enthusiasm What We're Looking For * Previous experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or similar kitchen role in a high-volume ...

Prep Cook

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Execute tasks assigned by Chefs and Sous Chefs with professionalism and enthusiasm What We're Looking For * Previous experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or similar kitchen role in a high-volume ...

Prep Cook

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Execute tasks assigned by Chefs and Sous Chefs with professionalism and enthusiasm What We're Looking For * Previous experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or similar kitchen role in a high-volume ...

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Prep Chef information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do prep chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for prep chef in Minnesota is $15.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.97 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.
Infographic showing various Prep Chef job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,957 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Assistant Prep/Event Chef

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Work behind the scenes to prepare and execute food for events.

  • Assist in preparing food items, ensuring consistency and organization.

  • Support the team in high-volume, professional kitchen operations during events.


Job description

Assistant Prep/Event Chef | $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Location: FIVE Event Center - Minneapolis, MN
Compensation: $18.00-$22.00 per hour, based on experience and skill level
Schedule: 3 days per week (with additional hours during peak season)
About the Role:
Love cooking from scratch, working with a passionate team, and being part of events that people remember forever? Hightop Hospitality is looking to add an Assistant Prep/Event Chef to our company Stonehouse Catering, working alongside our Executive Chef.
This role is hands-on and fast-paced, perfect for someone who takes pride in consistency, organization, and craft. No two days are the same. You'll work behind the scenes to bring events to life while building strong foundational pastry skills in a high-volume, professional kitchen.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 2+ year cooking experience
  • Basic understanding of reading and converting recipes, basic kitchen techniques, knife skills, and health and safety regulations
  • Exceptional organization and communication skills
  • Availability for early mornings, weekdays, and weekends
  • Self-motivated
  • Strong attention to detail and consistency
  • Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs
  • Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn

Schedule:
  • Year-round role with consistent part-time hours and increased scheduling during peak event season (May through early November)
  • Approximately 3 days per week (with additional hours during peak season)
  • Shifts typically begin at 9am and run through daytime hours
  • Regular availability required for Fridays and Saturdays during peak season

Who Thrives Here:
  • People who enjoy hands-on, detail-oriented work
  • Team players who communicate well in a kitchen environment
  • Individuals who take pride in craftsmanship and consistency
  • Adaptable problem-solvers who can handle high-volume production
  • Those interested in growing a career in cooking

Why You'll Love Working Here:
  • Hands-on training and skill development in a professional catering kitchen
  • Work on a wide variety of products
  • Consistent year-round work with seasonal variety
  • Supportive, team-focused environment
  • Opportunities for growth within Hightop Hospitality

About Us:
Hightop Hospitality is a collection of restaurant and catering brands that are as much defined by the premium ingredients, unique recipes, and high-levels of service as the neighborhoods we serve. We are a team of passionate industry-leading professionals committed to genuine hospitality. Each of the Hightop Hospitality brands is developed and supported by one of the most experienced hospitality teams in the upper Midwest. Stonehouse Catering is the newest addition to the Hightop Brand. With a tireless dedication to the highest standards and unparalleled industry knowledge, our team is the driving force for over 30 successful restaurants, four catering companies, and six event venues. Learn more about us at https://hightophospitality.com/brands/.