Prep Cook - Quick Hire!
Posted on October 24, 2025
Olive Garden is a renowned Italian restaurant chain that has been delighting guests with authentic Italian cuisine since its inception. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Olive Garden serves classic dishes such as soup, sauce, pasta, and lasagna, which are fundamental to the genuine Italian dining experience. With a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Olive Garden emphasizes high standards of health and safety, ensuring a clean and safe environment for both its guests and team members. The company fosters a family-like culture among its employees, offering numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Employment at Olive Garden provides not only a chance to be part of a respected and beloved hospitality brand but also a supportive work community that values each team member's contributions and well-being.
The role of a Prep Cook at Olive Garden is integral to delivering the true Italian dining experience that guests expect. As a Prep Cook, you will be responsible for preparing essential components of the menu with precision and passion. This position requires a strong focus on quality and consistency in executing recipes, ensuring that every dish meets Olive Garden’s high standards. Beyond the cooking skills, the role demands strict adherence to safety and sanitation protocols to maintain a healthy environment. This entry-level position offers flexible schedules to accommodate various life commitments, making it ideal for individuals who may be balancing school, childcare, or other responsibilities.
Compensation for the Prep Cook position ranges from $16.50 to $23 per hour, reflecting Olive Garden’s commitment to offering competitive wages for its team members. In addition to pay, Olive Garden provides a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee wellness and growth. These benefits include paid sick leave accrued from the start of employment, paid family and medical leave after one year, medical and dental insurance options, and ongoing training programs designed to build skills for current and future career opportunities. The company also offers a 401(k) savings plan with a company match after one year of service, showcasing its dedication to employees’ long-term financial security.
Olive Garden understands the importance of recognizing and rewarding its team members’ efforts. Anniversary pay and weekly pay ensure that employees receive timely and deserved compensation. Additional perks such as free employee meals, discounts on cellphones, travel, and electronics add value to the overall employment experience. For those interested in career advancement, Olive Garden provides management career opportunities, with over 50% of managers being promoted from hourly positions, demonstrating a clear pathway for growth within the company. Joining Olive Garden as a Prep Cook means becoming part of a family where every team member’s contribution is valued and where the focus remains on delivering exceptional food and service in a safe and supportive environment.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Prior experience in food preparation preferred
- Ability to work flexible schedules including nights and weekends
- Adherence to health and safety standards
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Ability to lift moderate weights
- Commitment to following recipes and procedures