How much does a Prep Cook II make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Prep Cook II in the United States is $38,643 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.

However, a Prep Cook II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $43,667
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $34,843 to $41,273
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $31,383

Key Factors That Influence Prep Cook II Salaries

A Prep Cook II's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Experience Level Affects Prep Cook Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Prep Cook II's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:

  • Entry-Level (less than 1 year): $37,982
  • Early Career (1-2 years): $38,663
  • Mid-Level (2-4 years): $39,527
  • Senior-Level (5-8 years): $39,644
  • Expert (over 8 years): $39,841
Levels Salary
Entry Level Prep Cook II$37,982
Intermediate Level Prep Cook II$38,663
Senior Level Prep Cook II$39,527
Specialist Level Prep Cook II$39,644
Expert Level Prep Cook II$39,841

Top Paying Cities for Prep Cook IIs

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $48,743
  • San Francisco: $48,203
  • Oakland: $47,193

Prep Cook II Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Prep Cook II salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $43,185. While startup companies pay approximate $36,530.

Prep Cook II Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $36,530
Growth Stage 51~500 $38,634
Established 501~5000 $41,701
Enterprise 5000+ $43,185

Prep Cook II Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Prep Cook II roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 110% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Software & Networking sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 50% above the average. In contrast, Prep Cook positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Construction typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Prep Cook II as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Prep Cook II

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Financial Services$57,964$28.050%
Software & Networking$56,032$27.045%
Biotechnology$54,100$26.040%
Pharmaceuticals$52,168$25.035%
Energy & Utilities$48,304$23.025%

Prep Cook II Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Prep Cook II's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$34,843
Average $38,643/year
$41,273
$2,904
Average $3,220/month
$3,439
$670
Average $743/week
$794
$17
Average $19/hour
$20
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $41,273 $3,439 $794 $20
Average $38,643 $3,220 $743 $19
25th Percentile $34,843 $2,904 $670 $17

Most common benefits for Prep Cook II

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Prep Cook II

Here are companies hiring for Prep Cook II and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Prep Cook II

1. What industry pays the highest salary for Prep Cook II?

The Financial Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Prep Cook II roles, with salaries approximately 50% above the market median.

2. Is a prep cook a chef?

A prep cook is an essential member of a restaurant kitchen team, responsible for preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks to assist line cooks and chefs in creating delicious dishes. The salary for a prep cook typically ranges from $35,653 to $44,293, with a mid-range salary of $39,673.

3. What type of cook makes the most money?

The highest-paying cook position is typically the Executive Chef, who oversees kitchen operations and management tasks. While salaries can vary, a Prep Cook earns between $35,653 and $44,293, with a mid-range salary of $39,673. Executive Chefs generally earn significantly more, reflecting their extensive responsibilities and leadership roles in the kitchen.

4. What is an entry-level cook called?

A commis or junior chef is an entry-level cook who works under chefs de partie. The salary for this position typically ranges from $35,653 to $44,293, with a mid-range salary of about $39,673. This role is essential for gaining experience in a professional kitchen.

5. How much does a second cook make?

A second cook typically earns between $35,653 and $44,293 annually, with a mid-salary of approximately $39,673. This range reflects the varying pay scales across different regions and establishments, providing a competitive salary for the role.

6. Is a prep cook an entry level position?

No formal experience is required to become a prep cook, making it an entry-level position. Familiarity with kitchen equipment and basic cooking techniques can be beneficial. The salary for a prep cook typically ranges from $35,653 to $44,293, with a mid-salary of $39,673. Many prep cooks gain experience on the job.

7. How much are cooks paid in USA?

As of January 2025, the salary for a Prep Cook in the United States ranges from a minimum of $35,653 to a maximum of $44,293, with a mid-salary of $39,673. This reflects a competitive pay scale, aligning with the broader culinary industry trends.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

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