Prep Cook Salary in Cincinnati, OH
Prep Cooks in Cincinnati, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $17.70 per hour, which translates to about $708.00 per week, $3,068.00 per month, and $36,816.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Cincinnati is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the culinary field within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cincinnati, OH?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cincinnati varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of average earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cincinnati Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work happens primarily in the kitchen and behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings are composed mainly of wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Cincinnati vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.86 per hour, which translates to about $35,068.80 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in Cincinnati fare slightly better with an hourly wage of $17.70 and an annual income of $36,816.00, indicating a small premium likely due to local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cincinnati for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas to Cincinnati offer varied pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Over-the-Rhine: $19.20 per hour
Over-the-Rhine offers some of the highest pay rates for Prep Cooks in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, possibly due to its vibrant culinary scene.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cincinnati?
Multiple factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Cincinnati:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more culinary skills and years of experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast food or casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing culinary certifications and formal training can lead to better salary offers.
- Shift Timings: Evening or early morning shifts might offer additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Cincinnati’s cost of living and growing food industry positively impact wages for culinary roles.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cincinnati
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Cincinnati involves several steps:
- Obtain Formal Culinary Training: Programs like the Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Culinary Arts Program and The Midwest Culinary Institute at Cincinnati State provide solid foundational knowledge and practical skills.
- Get Certified in Food Safety: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required to verify safe food handling practices.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Entry-level roles or internships in kitchens help develop essential preparation skills on the job.
- Consider Additional Culinary Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can enhance your credentials and job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cincinnati
Several well-known employers in Cincinnati regularly look for skilled Prep Cooks:
- SmoQ
- University of Cincinnati
- Lime Fresh Mexican Grill
- Red Lobster
- Mercy Health
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cincinnati Work At
Prep Cooks in Cincinnati find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically offer moderate pay but fast-paced environments.
- Casual Dining Establishments: Often provide steady schedules and salaries.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually pay higher wages due to skill requirements and prestige.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Can offer better compensation and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the wage structure, with fine dining and hotels generally leading to higher earnings for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cincinnati for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in similar roles related to Prep Cooking, consider exploring:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, which share common culinary skills and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cincinnati
Being informed about labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Prep Cooks working in Cincinnati.
- For federal labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services provides state-specific labor laws and workforce resources.
- Local employment resources and regulations can be checked on the City of Cincinnati's official website.