Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Prep Cook
What prep cooks actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Clock in, review the prep list and check the walk-in. From there, the day usually includes wash, peel and cut produce, portion meats and proteins, and prepare sauces, dressings and simple recipes. Many prep cooks work early morning shifts; part-time and weekend work is common.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a prep cook working full time.
- Clock in, review the prep list and check the walk-in.
- Wash and cut vegetables for the lunch line.
- Portion chicken breasts and label containers.
- Make salad dressings from recipes.
- Restock the line during the lunch rush.
- Rotate stock and clean the walk-in shelves.
- Clean and sanitize prep tables and equipment.
Where prep cooks work
Prep cooks work in kitchens that can be busy, wet and noisy, using knives and slicers. The job involves standing and lifting.
Hours and schedule
Many prep cooks work early morning shifts; part-time and weekend work is common.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Wash, peel and cut produce
- Portion meats and proteins
- Prepare sauces, dressings and simple recipes
- Measure ingredients accurately
- Label, date and store food
- Rotate stock using FIFO
- Clean and sanitize work areas
Tools you’ll use every day
- Knives and cutting boards
- Food processors and mixers
- Slicers
- Measuring cups and scales
- Storage containers and labels
- Sanitizer buckets
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- No experience needed
- Daytime shifts are common
- Learn kitchen skills
- Path to line cook
What’s hard
- Repetitive tasks
- Standing all day
- Modest pay
- Knife and slicer hazards
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like working with food
- I want to start without experience
- I like early shifts
- I can do repetitive tasks well
- I want to learn to cook
- I’m reliable
Not sure? Take the free Prep Cook fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use cut-resistant gloves with slicers
- Keep knives sharp and stored safely
- Lift with your legs
- Keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate