Prep Cook Salary in Cleveland, OH
Prep Cooks in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $15.58 per hour, which translates to about $623.20 per week, $2,700.53 per month, and $32,406.40 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cleveland can vary depending on experience, skills, and employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.49 | $499.60 | $2,165.33 | $23,979.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.58 | $623.20 | $2,700.53 | $32,406.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.45 | $778.00 | $3,362.67 | $40,456.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind-the-scenes in the kitchen, focusing on food preparation rather than customer service. Their earnings come mainly from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.75 per hour, or around $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Cleveland earn slightly less with an average hourly wage of $15.58 and an annual salary of about $32,406.40.
This difference may be influenced by the cost of living and regional economic factors in Cleveland, OH.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer different pay scales for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Cleveland: $18.00 per hour
- University Circle: $17.50 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Downtown Cleveland or University Circle typically enjoy higher pay, reflecting the commercial and medical hubs present in these areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Cleveland, OH:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to command higher wages due to increased efficiency and kitchen knowledge.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining establishments.
- Specialized Skills: Skills such as knife proficiency, understanding of food safety, and ability to follow complex recipes can be valuable.
- Location: Working in central or upscale locations like Downtown Cleveland can come with higher pay rates.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications or culinary training can help improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cleveland
Looking to start a career as a Prep Cook in Cleveland? Consider the following steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Associate Degree at Tri-C offer hands-on food preparation and kitchen management training.
- Attend High School Programs: Opportunities such as the Culinary Arts Program at Euclid High School provide early exposure to culinary arts through career tech education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure safe food handling.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can boost credentials for entry-level culinary professionals.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in kitchen roles to develop skills and build a foundation for career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cleveland
Cleveland boasts several prominent employers frequently hiring Prep Cooks, including:
- Applebee's
- Marriott International
- House of Blues
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cleveland Work At
Prep Cooks can find work in various types of establishments, each influencing salary levels:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work and moderate salaries.
- Fast-Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Pay may be lower but with potential for flexible hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer higher wages due to the upscale environment and demand for quality food preparation.
- Catering Companies: Opportunities for varied work environments and sometimes higher pay depending on event scale.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer the highest wages for Prep Cooks due to skill requirements and establishment prestige.
The type of establishment significantly affects a Prep Cook’s earning potential and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in similar career paths related to Prep Cook positions, consider exploring roles such as Line Cook, Cook, or Kitchen Porter. These jobs entail related culinary and kitchen duties with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cleveland
Prep Cooks should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax obligations in Cleveland to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Ohio’s labor regulations can be found on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.
- Information specific to Cleveland, including city ordinances and labor standards, is available at the City of Cleveland’s official website.