At PJ Lobster House, our Prep Cook (Production Prep Cook) plays a critical role in the success of our kitchen. As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components ...
At PJ Lobster House, our Prep Cook (Production Prep Cook) plays a critical role in the success of our kitchen. As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components ...
Prep Cook
$14 - $17.75/hr
PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it's consistent. Prep ...
Prep Cook
$14 - $17.75/hr
PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it's consistent. Prep ...
Prep Cook
$17/hr
As a Prep Cook, you'll be responsible for preparing ingredients for signature dishes, following recipes with accuracy, and ensuring your station is fully stocked and organized. Your attention to ...
Prep Cook
$17/hr
As a Prep Cook, you'll be responsible for preparing ingredients for signature dishes, following recipes with accuracy, and ensuring your station is fully stocked and organized. Your attention to ...
Prep Cook
$17/hr
As a Prep Cook, you'll be responsible for preparing ingredients for signature dishes, following recipes with accuracy, and ensuring your station is fully stocked and organized. Your attention to ...
Quick apply
Prep Cook
$17/hr
As a Prep Cook, you'll be responsible for preparing ingredients for signature dishes, following recipes with accuracy, and ensuring your station is fully stocked and organized. Your attention to ...
Prep Cook
Lake Grove, NY · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
Lake Grove, NY · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This role requires ...
Prep Cook
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This role requires ...
Prep Cook
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
Commack, NY · On-site
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
Commack, NY · On-site
$14.75 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
$14 - $17.75/hr
PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it's consistent. Prep ...
Quick apply
Prep Cook
$14 - $17.75/hr
PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it's consistent. Prep ...
Prep Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This role requires ...
Prep Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This role requires ...
Prep Cook
Oxford, CT · On-site
$14 - $17.75/hr
DESCRIPTION PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it ...
Prep Cook
Oxford, CT · On-site
$14 - $17.75/hr
DESCRIPTION PREP Cooks Prep cooks are the heart and soul of the kitchen! A great dish starts with quality ingredients handled with care and cooked following the same recipe every time so it ...
As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components that keep every station operating efficiently and consistently throughout the day. From preparing our homemade ...
Quick apply
As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components that keep every station operating efficiently and consistently throughout the day. From preparing our homemade ...
Prep Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
$15 - $18.75/hr
Work and Perks POSITION SUMMARY The Prep Cook is responsible for assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting the kitchen team with various cooking tasks. This ...
Prep Cook
Port Jefferson, NY · On-site
$18/hr
As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components that keep every station operating efficiently and consistently throughout the day. From preparing our homemade ...
Prep Cook
Port Jefferson, NY · On-site
$18/hr
As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components that keep every station operating efficiently and consistently throughout the day. From preparing our homemade ...
Prep Cook
Stamford, CT · On-site
$18 - $21/hr
What you'll do as a Prep Cook: * Prepare ingredients and food items according to bartaco's recipes and quality standards * Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service ...
Quick apply
Prep Cook
Stamford, CT · On-site
$18 - $21/hr
What you'll do as a Prep Cook: * Prepare ingredients and food items according to bartaco's recipes and quality standards * Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service ...
Prep Cook
$17 - $21/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
New
Quick apply
Prep Cook
$17 - $21/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
New
Prep Cook
$18 - $21/hr
What you'll do as a Prep Cook: * Prepare ingredients and food items according to bartaco's recipes and quality standards * Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service ...
Prep Cook
$18 - $21/hr
What you'll do as a Prep Cook: * Prepare ingredients and food items according to bartaco's recipes and quality standards * Keep the kitchen stocked with fresh, high-quality ingredients for service ...
Prep Cook
Danbury, CT · On-site
$17.50 - $22/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
Quick apply
Prep Cook
Danbury, CT · On-site
$17.50 - $22/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
Prep Cook
Lake Grove, NY · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
Prep Cooks are responsible to cook and prepare a variety of food products including meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, sauces, stocks, breads and other food products using a variety of equipment ...
Prep Cook
Lake Grove, NY · On-site
$15 - $18.75/hr
Prep Cooks are responsible to cook and prepare a variety of food products including meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, sauces, stocks, breads and other food products using a variety of equipment ...
Prep Cook
$17.50 - $22/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
Quick apply
Prep Cook
$17.50 - $22/hr
Our Prep Cooks are passionate team players who support back-of-house operations and help create memorable dining experiences for our guests. Responsibilities Steady Hours, Flexible Life * High-volume ...
Prep Cook information
See Fairfield, CT salary details
$9.34 - $10.34
1% of jobs
$10.34 - $11.34
3% of jobs
$11.34 - $12.34
7% of jobs
$12.34 - $13.35
8% of jobs
$13.82 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.35 - $14.35
11% of jobs
$14.35 - $15.35
15% of jobs
The median wage is $15.63 / hr.
$15.35 - $16.35
17% of jobs
$17.29 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.35 - $17.35
14% of jobs
$17.35 - $18.35
13% of jobs
$18.35 - $19.36
7% of jobs
$19.36 - $20.36
4% of jobs
$9
$15
$20
How much do prep cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for prep cook in Fairfield, CT is $15.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a prep cook?
A prep cook works in a restaurant or private kitchen, preparing ingredients for other chefs to cook. As a prep cook, your responsibilities center on simplifying the cooking process for everyone in the kitchen. Your duties include cleaning, peeling, chopping, cutting, slicing, and dicing vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and other food. You are also responsible for maintaining health and safety standards in the kitchen, which is a responsibility of everyone on the staff. You need excellent knife skills to safely and quickly prepare food, and you need communication skills to follow instructions and collaborate with your coworkers. Experience working in a kitchen is helpful when you look for jobs as a prep cook, but a prep cook can sometimes be considered to be an entry-level position.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prep cook, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Prep Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety and sanitation, and experience with kitchen equipment, usually gained through on-the-job training or a culinary certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen tools such as slicers, mixers, and standardized recipes is common in this role. Strong attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are essential soft skills for handling multiple tasks efficiently. These abilities ensure high-quality food preparation, kitchen safety, and smooth operation during busy service periods.
What are some common challenges faced by prep cooks, and how can they be managed effectively?
Prep cooks often encounter challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintaining consistency in food preparation. To manage these effectively, it’s important to develop strong time-management skills, stay organized, and communicate clearly with other kitchen staff. Building stamina and adaptability will also help handle peak hours, and being attentive to detail ensures quality and food safety standards are consistently met.
What is the difference between Prep Cook vs Line Cook?
| Aspect | Prep Cook | Line Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | Prepares ingredients, washes, chops, and organizes supplies | cooks dishes during service, manages specific station |
| Skills & Certifications | Basic cooking skills, food safety, knife skills | Advanced cooking skills, station-specific knowledge |
| Work Environment | Kitchen prep area, early shifts | Hot line during service, fast-paced environment |
| Typical Employer | Restaurants, catering services | Restaurants, hotels, catering |
Prep cooks focus on preparing ingredients and organizing supplies, while line cooks handle cooking dishes during service. Both roles require food safety knowledge, but line cooks often need more advanced skills and work in a faster, high-pressure environment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right culinary role.
Is a prep cook a hard job?
A prep cook role involves preparing ingredients and assisting with kitchen tasks, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. The job often involves standing for long periods, working quickly during busy hours, and following safety and hygiene standards. Experience with kitchen tools and time management skills can help manage the workload effectively.
What does a prep cook do?
A prep cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and basic dishes in a kitchen, such as chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and assembling components for chefs. They work in a fast-paced environment, often using knives, food processors, and other kitchen tools, and typically follow food safety and sanitation standards.
More about Prep Cook jobs
What job categories do people searching Prep Cook jobs in Fairfield, CT look for?
The top searched job categories for Prep Cook jobs in Fairfield, CT are:
What cities near Fairfield, CT are hiring for Prep Cook jobs?
Cities near Fairfield, CT with the most Prep Cook job openings:
Prep Cook
Port Jefferson, NY
PJ Lobster House •Â
Restaurants • 11 - 50 employees11 - 50 employees
$18/hr
Full-time
Re-posted 12 days ago
Job description
Build the Foundation for Every Great Meal.
At PJ Lobster House, our Prep Cook (Production Prep Cook) plays a critical role in the success of our kitchen. As a Production Prep Cook, you'll prepare the ingredients, recipes, and menu components that keep every station operating efficiently and consistently throughout the day.
From preparing our homemade soups, sauces, salads, and condiments to cleaning fresh shrimp, rolling baked clams, portioning menu items, stocking the line, and organizing inventory, your work directly impacts every meal we serve.
Production Prep Cooks work closely with our Line Cooks, Kitchen Coordinators, and Kitchen Support Team to ensure every station is fully stocked and ready for service. Success in this position requires organization, attention to detail, the ability to follow recipes accurately, and pride in producing consistent, high-quality food.
At PJ Lobster House, no one says, "That's not my job." Every member of our kitchen works together to support one another and deliver an exceptional dining experience. Our Production Prep Cooks provide the foundation that allows every station to perform at its best.
If you're dependable, enjoy working with fresh ingredients, take pride in organization, and want to build a long-term career in a professional kitchen, we'd love to meet you.
Prepare soups according to established restaurant recipes.
Prepare sauces, dressings, condiments, and other signature recipes.
Prepare salads and cold menu items.
Clean, peel, and prepare shrimp and other seafood.
Prepare and roll baked clams according to restaurant standards.
Portion meats, seafood, sauces, soups, dressings, and other menu items according to established specifications.
Label, date, rotate, and properly store all prepared products using FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory procedures.
Receive, organize, and properly put away deliveries.
Rotate inventory and maintain organized walk-ins, coolers, freezers, and dry storage areas.
Stock and replenish line cook stations before and during service.
Follow all recipes, portion specifications, and preparation standards accurately.
Wash dishes and assist the Kitchen Support Team during slower periods.
Remove trash, recycling, and cardboard as needed.
Maintain clean and organized prep areas, shelving, storage areas, and kitchen workspaces.
Assist with general kitchen cleaning and sanitation throughout the shift.
Follow all food safety, sanitation, labeling, and storage procedures.
Complete opening, closing, and side work as assigned.
Support all kitchen departments whenever needed.
About Pj Lobster House
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Restaurants
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Port Jefferson, NY, US
Year founded
1995