Prep Cook Salary in Ann Arbor, MI
Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.07 per hour, which translates to about $682.80 per week, $2,958.80 per month, and $35,505.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Ann Arbor, MI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Ann Arbor can vary depending on experience and establishment, but below is an overview of typical earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.13 | $525.20 | $2,263.47 | $27,156.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.23 | $649.20 | $2,795.80 | $33,758.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.07 | $802.80 | $3,468.47 | $41,745.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations.
Prep Cook Salary in Ann Arbor vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.23 per hour, translating to about $33,758.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor earn slightly more at about $17.07 per hour and $35,505.60 annually, reflecting the local economy and demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ann Arbor for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Ann Arbor: $18.50 per hour
- Kerrytown: $17.60 per hour
Working in Downtown Ann Arbor provides the highest earning potential among neighboring localities, likely due to more upscale dining options and higher living costs.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Ann Arbor?
Several important factors can influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Ann Arbor:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more culinary skills and years of experience generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens often pay more than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Completing food safety and culinary certifications may increase pay prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Some employers provide shift differentials for evenings or weekends.
- Local Cost of Living: Salary tends to be higher in areas where living costs are greater.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Ann Arbor
Becoming a Prep Cook in Ann Arbor typically involves a combination of training, certification, and practical experience:
- Enroll in local culinary training programs such as the Washtenaw Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Seek on-the-job training via University of Michigan Dining Services Training Program, which provides valuable development opportunities.
- Obtain food safety certification such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of proper food handling and safety.
- Consider additional credentials like the Certified Culinarian (CC) Credential from the American Culinary Federation to validate culinary skills and enhance employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor
Several prominent establishments in Ann Arbor regularly seek skilled Prep Cooks:
- Sava's Restaurant
- Zingerman's Roadhouse
- University of Michigan Dining Services
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor Work At
Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor typically work in a variety of foodservice settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally offer moderate wages and an opportunity to develop diverse culinary skills.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often have high-paced environments with consistent work hours but slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end hotels may offer better salaries along with benefits.
- Institutional Kitchens: Large-scale operations like university dining may provide steady employment and structured advancement paths.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly impact salary and employment conditions for Prep Cooks in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ann Arbor for Prep Cooks
If you're evaluating roles similar to Prep Cook, you might also consider these related positions:
These include Cook, Commis Chef, and Fry Cook positions, each offering different responsibilities and salary potentials in the culinary field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor
Prep Cooks should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Michigan and federally.
- Michigan state labor laws and employment resources are available on the official Michigan government website.
- Federal labor standards can be researched through the U.S. Department of Labor's website.
- For tax information and filing requirements, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.