An individual who prepares numerous ingredients, including washing, cutting, and measuring, is known as a prep cook. Think about going along this professional path if you have an interest in the culinary arts. You may be able to build the ideal qualifications and improve your chances of job success and satisfaction by understanding the numerous responsibilities, abilities, and criteria.

A prep cook collaborates with other culinary professionals, such as the head chef, to maintain the effectiveness and safety of a restaurant’s kitchen. The duties of a prep cook also include executing high-quality food preparation and adhering to health and safety requirements. Being a prep cook allows you to:

• Clean and sanitize prep stations before and after use, making sure that all kitchen equipment is clean and ready to use
• Monitor ingredient and inventory levels, reporting to the chef or sous chef at regular intervals throughout the shift
• Ensure the consistency, quality and accuracy of each customer’s order 
• Prepare dishes for banquets and fulfill any special requests when applicable
• Order inventory and oversee deliveries
• Assist in creating menus
• Adhere to food storage standards

Prep cooks are often required to have previous kitchen or food preparation experience.

Obtaining a position as a prep cook may involve specific requirements depending on the level of jobs you’re applying for, including:

Education

Many establishments require prep cooks to have at least a high school diploma or GED, and some schools offer students the opportunity to gain valuable culinary experience as part of their curriculum. For example, many high schools have cooking and culinary arts classes where students can begin their education and familiarize themselves with the kitchen.

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Though entry-level positions often have no formal education requirements, many prep cooks enroll in postsecondary culinary education programs to advance their careers.

Training

Many prep cooks learn the skills and knowledge they need while on the job, including knife handling skills, communication and preparation of specific menu items. Training is usually part of the orientation process with a new company.

Job training often includes shadowing a current prep cook or serving in other entry-level jobs. These support positions teach the fundamentals of working in a kitchen and may lead to advancement opportunities, including, eventually, chef roles. Apprenticeships might also be available to gain hands-on experience in the industry and receive real-time feedback and helpful advice from your mentor.

Certifications

Professional certifications allow prep cooks to gain more practical knowledge, sharpen their culinary skills and function efficiently in the kitchen. Here are some certifications for this occupation:

• Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC)

Administered by the American Hotel and Lodging Education Institute, this certification focuses on training new or prospective employees to perform key tasks. It also teaches them general hospitality knowledge and the soft skills needed in the food service industry.

• Certified Culinarian (CC)

Administered by the American Culinary Federation, this certification is for entry-level cooks working in commercial food service who prepare and cook sauces and dressings, soups and stocks, fish, meats, vegetables, eggs and other foods. Requirements include a 30-hour course in nutrition, food safety and sanitation and supervisory management, followed by a comprehensive written or practical exam.

Prep cooks require several skills to succeed in a kitchen setting. Some skills include:

• Technical: Prep cooks use knives and other cooking equipment daily. They have the manual dexterity to use such equipment and the ability to train others to use it safely.
• Sanitation: Prep cooks keep the kitchen clean and sanitized, as contamination not only affects the quality of the food but can also cause illness and lead to restaurants closing.
• Organization: Prep cooks use organizational skills to improve the flow of tasks in the kitchen by keeping utensils, tools and prep areas clean, in their proper places and ready to use.
• Attention to detail: Success as a prep cook requires precision when measuring and cooking food items to exact specifications.
• Communication skills: A prep cook uses verbal and non-verbal communication to interact with the culinary team and management. Essential aspects of excellent communication skills for prep cooks include giving and receiving constructive feedback, collaborating with others and continuously learning new recipes and cooking methods.

A prep cook’s yearly income in the United States is $37,021. Your prospective earnings can differ based on your degree of experience, abilities, and certifications, as well as your employer, workplace, and geographic area. Click on the linked link to view Indeed’s most recent wage data.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 2% increase in employment possibilities for those who prepare meals between 2021 and 2031. About 145,800 positions should become available for this position each year.

Here are steps you can take to prepare for prep cook roles after meeting the basic requirements:

1. Create your resume

Create an appealing resume to highlight your qualifications. Include work experience and relevant certifications. Your work history section includes the company’s name, employment dates and a brief description of your responsibilities. Showing career progression and personal growth may help you earn the prep cook job you want.

Additionally, include keywords establishments might have included in the job description. This can help showcase your attention to detail and other preferred skills to succeed in this role.

2. Apply for kitchen support jobs

Check the local job listings in your area and apply to positions you’re qualified for based on the required skills and experience. Knowing what you can offer might increase the chances of being hired into a prep cook role. Present a customized cover letter summarizing your qualifications and ability to perform the job duties.

3. Practice for interviews

You may find it beneficial to practice for interviews before attending your first one. This can help you prepare for potential questions about your abilities, experiences and other relevant information about being a prep cook. Consider asking a friend or family member to interview you. After the mock interview, they can provide you with feedback you can apply during an actual interview.