what is being a prep cook like

A prep cook may play a supporting role in the kitchen, but their job is just as important as anyone else’s. Almost every chef and line cook has spent time as a prep cook before moving their way up the ranks. Without prep cooks, the line cooks’ jobs would be much harder. But what does a prep cook do, exactly? The short answer is that they prepare ingredients that higher-up cooks and chefs need to make the dishes for the customers. When a chef finds a prep cook who is a good fit for their kitchen, they want to keep them around. Prep cooks are in high demand, and if you’re interested in the role, you’re in luck — there are lots of high-paying prep cook positions available right now on Instawork. But what does a prep cook’s day-to-day look like? How much does a prep cook earn? And what skills does a prep cook need? Find out the answers to all these questions and more below.

A prep cook is a kitchen staff member who handles prepping the ingredients for all the dishes served at the restaurant. They ensure proper food safety when cutting or washing any ingredients. A prep cook may need a food handler safety certification, but they don’t need to have a specific level of schooling.
what is being a prep cook like

What does a prep cook do?

“Prep” is short for prepare or preparation, and that is exactly what a prep cook does. A prep cook follows a “prep list” created by the chef. This “prep list” contains all the food items that need to be prepared for the kitchen that day. The prep cook works with the head chef throughout the shift to complete tasks in the right order and on time. Because they are preparing the food for that day, a prep cook is often the first person in the kitchen. Depending on when the restaurant opens, this could be very early in the morning. The preparation that a prep cook does can vary greatly, from chopping vegetables and grating cheese to portioning out meat and fish. Prep cooks will also prepare parts of dishes for the kitchen, like sauces, soups, and salad dressings. And prep cooks don’t only prepare food. They also help clean the kitchen and keep it organized. A prep cook will help put away deliveries, for example, and they may also be expected to help the dishwashers when needed. As a result, being a prep cook is a labor-intensive job. Prep cooks also spend many hours on their feet and are sometimes required to lift and move heavy objects. By the end of the shift, you can end up getting quite the workout!

What skills does a prep cook need?

If you’ve been asking “What does a prep cook do,” you probably also want to know what skills they need. To start, a prep cook should have at least adequate knife skills. Good knife skills can be learned on the job, but having them ahead of time is always a bonus. More importantly, a prep cook needs to have a good sense of organization. The prep cook makes sure the kitchen is organized however the head chef wants it organized. The prep cook also needs to be able to follow orders. These orders will come from the head chef. A prep cook should also be able to multitask. Prep cooks often have a long list of tasks to complete, and completing them in a timely manner requires multitasking. On top of this, a prep cook needs to be able to prioritize. They should know which tasks on their list are the most important and start with those.

Food safety certification requirements differ by state and city. But, in most states and cities across the country kitchen employees need to have food safety certification. Even if it is not required by the state or city, a kitchen will often require its employees to have the local food safety certification. If you want to work as a prep cook, then it is a good idea to have this certificate before you apply. This will signal to the business that you take the job seriously. On Instawork, most employers won’t book Professionals unless they already have the certificates they need — so make sure to upload your Food Handlers card and any other certifications you have to your Instawork profile so we can review and verify them.

A Day in the Life of a Prep Cook

FAQ

Is being a prep cook stressful?

It can be a high-stress job — they have the whole flow of the kitchen on their shoulders — but if a prep cook is organized and great at multitasking, they’ll find the job gets easier as their knife skills get sharper.

Is it hard being a prep cook?

Is prep cook a hard job? Prep cooks have a difficult job of cutting, prepping, washing and cooking everything that is required to serve a dish. Due to this, they are the unsung heroes of the culinary world.

What experience do you need to be a prep cook?

Most prep cook jobs will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, if you are looking to work in a more upscale restaurant, you will need to have some postsecondary education, such as a culinary arts degree.

Is food prep a hard job?

The work is often strenuous. Workers may stand for hours at a time cleaning or preparing ingredients. Some may be required to lift and carry heavy pots or supplies. In fast-paced kitchens, staff must work together to ensure dishes are prepared quickly and properly.

What is a prep cook?

A prep cook is a kitchen staff member who handles prepping the ingredients for all the dishes served at the restaurant. They ensure proper food safety when cutting or washing any ingredients. A prep cook may need a food handler safety certification, but they don’t need to have a specific level of schooling.

How to prepare for a colonoscopy?

Preparing for a colonoscopy involves clearing your colon for the procedure. Typically, you’ll need to follow a liquid-only diet the day before and take a prescribed laxative to empty your bowels. This ensures a clear view for the doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely for the best results.

Is a prep cook a good job?

A prep cook can have an unpredictable salary and often has to work unpredictable hours based on the restaurant. Many restaurants are open until late at night and may require all cooks to stay until closing. This type of job is perfect for a student, as one can attend class in the morning and work in the evenings or at night.

Is a prep cook a chef?

A prep cook, being an entry-level position focused mainly on preparing ingredients for other chefs, does not usually carry these same responsibilities or requirements. So, a prep cook is typically classified as a cook, not a chef.

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