Prep Cook Salary in Berwyn, IL
Prep Cooks in Berwyn, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Berwyn is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for culinary support staff preparing ingredients and assisting chefs in various food service establishments.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Berwyn, IL?
The earnings of a Prep Cook in Berwyn vary by experience and skill, providing room for wage growth as proficiency and responsibilities increase.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Berwyn Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their tasks are mostly behind the scenes preparing food and supporting kitchen staff. Their compensation primarily comes from wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Berwyn vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly wage for a Prep Cook is about $16.00 per hour, amounting to approximately $33,280 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Berwyn earn slightly more with an average wage of $16.50 per hour and annual earnings of around $34,320.00, suggesting a modest salary advantage in this local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Berwyn for Prep Cooks
Nearby locations with higher wages for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Berwyn: $17.00 per hour
- North Berwyn: $16.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Berwyn offers the highest pay among these areas, reflecting possibly busier culinary scenes or more upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Berwyn?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Berwyn:
- Experience Level: More seasoned Prep Cooks with extensive kitchen experience tend to negotiate higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in food preparation techniques and holding food safety certifications often result in better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants generally pays more than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand: Areas with a larger hospitality industry presence may offer higher wages due to competition for skilled kitchen help.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Berwyn
For those seeking a Prep Cook role in Berwyn, here are some useful steps to consider:
- Complete Culinary Programs: Programs like the Triton College Culinary Arts Program in nearby River Grove or the Kendall College Culinary Arts Program in Chicago provide solid culinary foundations and preparation for food service roles.
- Obtain Required Certifications: State-mandated Food Handler Certification and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are essential for meeting food safety standards.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Entry-level opportunities in restaurants or catering companies help new cooks develop necessary kitchen skills and organization.
- Networking in the Hospitality Industry: Engaging with local culinary groups can assist with job openings and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Berwyn
Some well-known employers actively seeking Prep Cooks in Berwyn include:
- Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
- McDonald's
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Berwyn Work At
Prep Cooks in Berwyn typically find employment in a diverse range of food service settings such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Entry-level pay is usually at the lower end but offers steady shifts and opportunities to develop kitchen skills.
- Casual Dining: These establishments might pay slightly higher wages with moderate responsibilities.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Often provide the highest pay for Prep Cooks due to skill expectations and service quality standards.
- Catering Services and Hotels: Pay can vary widely but may include benefits and room for growth.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with upscale venues generally rewarding greater skill and experience.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Berwyn for Prep Cooks
If you're considering similar or advancement opportunities in hospitality, here are a few related roles to explore:
These similar careers include Line Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef positions, each with related responsibilities and earning potentials within kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Berwyn
Stay informed on labor regulations and tax requirements for food service workers in Berwyn:
- For detailed federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Illinois state-specific employment standards and unemployment resources, the Illinois Department of Employment Security site is very helpful.