Prep Cook Salary in Akron, OH
Prep Cooks in Akron, OH, earn approximately $14.06 per hour, which equals about $562.40 per week, $2,437.07 per month, and $29,244.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Akron is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role within the area's food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Akron, OH?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Akron varies by experience, with wages increasing as skills and time on the job grow. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.89 | $475.60 | $2,058.93 | $24,699.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.06 | $562.40 | $2,437.07 | $29,244.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,469.20 | $41,641.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Akron Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role involves behind-the-scenes food preparation rather than direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Akron vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Prep Cooks is about $15.43, translating to an annual salary near $32,094.40.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Akron earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $14.06 and yearly wages around $29,244.80.
This variance can be influenced by local cost of living and employer types in Akron.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Akron for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, salaries for Prep Cooks differ as follows:
- Downtown Akron: $15.50 per hour
- Fairlawn: $17.60 per hour
Both Downtown Akron and Fairlawn offer better pay than Akron’s average, with Fairlawn being the highest paying area nearby.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Akron?
Several factors contribute to how much a Prep Cook can earn in Akron:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced food preparation skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale restaurants or catering services often pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or certifications such as ServSafe can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes offer additional pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional cost of living and labor market competition also impact salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Akron
Starting your career as a Prep Cook in Akron involves taking key steps to build skills and qualifications:
- Explore Culinary Education: Programs like the University of Akron Culinary Arts Program and Stark State College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is essential for learning safe food handling and is often required by employers.
- Earn Industry Certifications: Credentials such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) from the American Culinary Federation can improve your employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or dishwasher can provide valuable hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Akron
Several prominent employers in Akron are known to hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Summa Health
- Portage Country Club
- Fairlawn Country Club
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Akron Work At
Prep Cooks can be found working in a variety of food service settings in Akron, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues provide steady work but may offer lower pay compared to fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end establishments often pay better and may provide benefits.
- Catering Services: Prep Cooks here may enjoy variable hours and specialized food preparation.
- Healthcare and Institutional Kitchens: Hospitals and schools may offer consistent schedules and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary and work environment for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Akron for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider these related careers:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, which share similar culinary skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Akron
Prep Cooks in Akron should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor regulations.
- The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website at https://jfs.ohio.gov offers resources on employment laws and workforce development in Ohio.
- For local Akron-specific ordinances and employment guidance, explore https://www.akronohio.gov.