Prep cooks prepare ingredients before service, handling tasks like chopping vegetables, marinating meats, and organizing mise en place. It's the most accessible kitchen position and an excellent stepping stone to line cook and beyond.
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Practice Prep Cook skills before your first shift
Menu Master — Master kitchen and menu terminology. Free, no signup.
Get certified: Food Handler's Permit
Required for food roles - unlocks $15+/hr positions. Compare providers, costs, and renewal periods.
Find your first Prep Cook shift on Indeed Flex
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Practice basic cuts (dice, julienne, chiffonade) at home. Speed and consistency are valued, but safety comes first.
Tips:
Complete food handler training to understand safe food handling practices.
Tips:
Apply to restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional kitchens. Prep cook positions often accept candidates with no professional experience.
Tips:
Required Education
None
Helpful Education
Cooking classes, culinary interest
Helpful Qualifications
Basic food safety certification required in most states
Entry-Level Hire
Apply directly as prep cook with minimal experience.
$14-18/hr
Resources to advance your career
