What Is a Prep Cook?

Ever wondered who keeps a kitchen running behind the scenes? It's not just the head chef — it's also the prep cook, the person who makes sure everything is ready before the cooking even begins. If you're curious about working in a kitchen or just want a good starting job in the food industry, becoming a prep cook is a great first step.

Prep cooks do important work that helps restaurants run smoothly. In this blog, we'll explain what a prep cook does, what skills you need, how much you can earn, and how this job can lead to more opportunities in the kitchen. And if you're looking for flexible work, we'll also show you how you can find prep cook gigs through AnyShift, the top app for gig jobs.

What Exactly Is a Prep Cook?

Let's keep it simple. A prep cook (short for preparation cook) is the person who gets everything ready before the real cooking begins. If you've ever worked in a busy kitchen—or even just watched one—you'll know how fast things move. Prep cooks make sure the chefs and line cooks have everything they need, right when they need it.

You can think of a prep cook as the kitchen's first responder. They handle all the behind-the-scenes prep work so the rest of the team can focus on cooking and plating during service.

What You'd Be Doing?

• Washing, peeling, and chopping veggies
• Cutting and portioning meat or seafood
• Making basic sauces or dressings
• Stocking ingredients and keeping things organized
• Keeping your station clean and food-safe

Job Description: A Day in the Life of a Prep Cook

So, what does a typical day look like for a prep cook? While it can change depending on the type of kitchen you're in — like a fancy restaurant versus a fast-paced diner — there are some things that stay pretty much the same no matter where you work.

Here's what your day might look like:

Early Start

You'll usually begin your shift before the rush. The goal is to have all the ingredients ready before the kitchen gets busy with orders.

Focused, Detailed Work

You'll be following recipes, measuring ingredients, and portioning things out — so paying attention to details really matters.

Team Player Energy

You'll be working side by side with chefs, line cooks, and sometimes dishwashers. Good communication and a positive attitude go a long way.

Keep It Clean

A clean kitchen is a safe kitchen. You'll spend part of your shift wiping down surfaces, storing food properly, and making sure everything stays sanitary.

Pay and Career Growth: Is Being a Prep Cook Worth It?

Let's get into the practical stuff — how much you can earn and where this job can take you.

How Much Does a Prep Cook Make?

Prep cooks usually get paid by the hour. The exact amount depends on where you work and how much experience you have. In most places, it's a competitive starting wage, and as you get better and faster, your pay can go up.

If you're working through a gig app like AnyShift, you'll also have the chance to choose shifts that pay well and fit your schedule — sometimes with higher rates during peak hours.

Can This Lead to Bigger Roles?

Absolutely. A lot of chefs, sous chefs, and even restaurant managers started out as prep cooks. It's one of the best ways to get your foot in the door and learn how a kitchen really works.

What Skills Will You Gain?

This job teaches you:

• Food safety and handling
• Knife and cutting techniques
• How to work fast and stay organized in a kitchen
• Teamwork and communication

These are valuable skills, especially if you want to keep growing in the food industry.

Essential Skills Needed to Thrive as a Prep Cook

To do well as a prep cook, you don't need a fancy degree — but you do need the right skills. Some are technical, others are more about how you work with people and handle pressure.

Here's what really matters:

Knife Skills

You'll be chopping, slicing, dicing — a lot. Knowing how to handle a knife safely and efficiently is a must.

Time Management

There's always a list of things to do, and not much time. Being able to plan your tasks and move quickly helps everything run smoother.

Attention to Detail

Whether you're measuring ingredients or following a recipe, accuracy matters. One small mistake can throw off a whole dish.

Teamwork

You're part of a team. That means being reliable, communicating clearly, and helping out when things get hectic.

Food Safety Knowledge

Clean hands, proper storage, avoiding cross-contamination — knowing the basics of food safety is important in every kitchen.

Physical Stamina

Prep cooks are on their feet for most of the shift, and the work can be physically demanding. You might also need to lift heavy boxes or large pots.

Finding Prep Cook Jobs: AnyShift Is Your Solution

Looking to start working as a prep cook? AnyShift is the easiest way to find flexible kitchen jobs near you. With the app, you can browse and apply for shifts right from your phone, choose when you want to work, and find gigs close to home. Whether you're looking for part-time work, full days, or just weekend shifts, AnyShift gives you options that fit your schedule. You can work at restaurants, catering companies, or events — and try different kitchens to see what suits you best. Skip the job boards and get started today by downloading the AnyShift app and booking your first shift in minutes.

Conclusion

Being a prep cook is a great way to start your journey in the kitchen. It's a hands-on job that teaches you useful skills, keeps you active, and can lead to bigger roles if you stick with it. Whether you want to build a career in cooking or just need flexible work, prep cook jobs are full of opportunity.

And with apps like AnyShift, finding the right gig is easier than ever. So grab your apron, sharpen your knife, and jump into the world of prep cooking — your next shift could be the start of something big.