Food Preparation Work: A Great Way to Get Started in the Culinary Industry
Food preparation workers help chefs to prepare meals in restaurants. While they usually do not have creative control of the meals, they do play a big part in getting them ready to serve. They might cut up vegetables and meat or make salads. They also help to keep the kitchen clean and safe.
Education to Become a Food Preparation Worker
On-the-job training is usually enough education for you to become a food preparation worker. This makes food preparation an ideal job if you are young and interested in a cooking career. You can see if you like working in the bustling kitchen environment, and you will learn if you still feel passionate about food after spending much of your time around it.
As you gain more experience, you might decide to pursue a degree in the culinary arts, which can put you on the fast track to becoming a chef. The practical experience you have already gained will give you an immediate advantage when you start culinary school.
Food Preparation Opportunities
Because many people do not stay long in their jobs as food preparation workers, there are generally plenty of job openings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food preparation jobs should to grow at a steady pace with the rest of the economy, and you can expect to make around $8 per hour. Some food preparation specialties, such as the preparation of on-the-go meals, are expected to grow faster than average as more and more people look for quick, convenient meal options.

