Prep Cook in Davenport, IA
Prep Cooks in Davenport, IA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.32 per hour, which translates to about $612.80 per week, $2,655.47 per month, and $31,865.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Davenport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive employment outlook for individuals entering this role in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Davenport varies depending on experience and skill level. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.24 | $489.60 | $2,116.80 | $25,401.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.55 | $622.00 | $2,688.67 | $32,344.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.77 | $790.80 | $3,407.73 | $40,161.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Davenport Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation. Their earnings usually come from wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.55 per hour, translating to about $32,344 per year.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Davenport earn approximately $15.32 per hour and $31,865.60 annually, which is slightly below but very close to the national figures.
This modest difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varied pay for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- East Village: $17.00 per hour
Working in Downtown or East Village could provide better compensation options for Prep Cooks willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Davenport?
Several key factors impact the salary of a Prep Cook in Davenport:
- Experience and Skill Level: More seasoned Prep Cooks with efficient knife skills and food safety knowledge tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in higher-end restaurants or hotels usually comes with better pay than casual dining or fast food establishments.
- Certifications: Having certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can increase employability and salary prospects.
- Shift Timings: Evening or weekend shifts may offer differentials increasing income.
- Local Economic Conditions: Davenport’s market conditions and cost of living affect wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Davenport
Getting started as a Prep Cook in Davenport involves several steps for building a solid foundation:
- Complete Culinary Training: Consider programs like the Scott Community College Culinary Arts Program or Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Hospitality Management Program which prepare students for roles in food preparation and hospitality.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required in food service.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level credential that demonstrates fundamental culinary skills.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Starting in kitchens or food service environments helps build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Davenport
The following employers frequently hire Prep Cooks in Davenport:
- Hy-Vee, Inc.
- Granite City Food & Brewery
- Bar Louie
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Davenport Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in various establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Spots: Such places often have faster-paced environments with potential for tips in some cases, although rare for Prep Cooks.
- Hotels and Catering Operations: These may offer better pay and benefits due to the scope of services and clientele.
- Bars and Breweries: Establishments like Granite City Food & Brewery provide culinary opportunities with varying pay depending on the kitchen size.
Salaries can vary significantly based on the prestige and customer volume of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in careers related to Prep Cooking, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook—all requiring culinary skill sets somewhat overlapping with Prep Cook roles, offering varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Davenport
It is important for Prep Cooks to be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and tax obligations to ensure their rights and comply with regulations.
- U.S. Department of Labor website offers detailed information on federal labor laws and worker protections.
- Iowa Workforce Development provides resources on state-specific labor laws and available workforce services.
- Official City of Davenport site provides local government information pertinent to employment.