Prep Cook Salary in Dayton, OH
Prep Cooks in Dayton, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $13.65 per hour, which translates to about $546.00 per week, $2,366.00 per month, and $28,392.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Dayton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Dayton, OH?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Dayton varies depending on experience and skill level, but generally ranges across different levels as shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.26 | $450.40 | $1,952.93 | $23,440.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.65 | $546.00 | $2,366.00 | $28,392.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.56 | $662.40 | $2,851.20 | $34,444.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Dayton Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their duties involve food preparation and kitchen support behind the scenes. Their earnings are typically limited to wages or salary without additional tip compensation.
Prep Cook Salary in Dayton vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Dayton earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $13.65 and annual earnings around $28,392. This difference reflects local market conditions and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dayton for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Dayton: $15.50 per hour
- Beavercreek: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks seeking higher wages might consider employment opportunities in Beavercreek, which provides the highest pay among nearby locations.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Dayton?
Several factors contribute to how much a Prep Cook can earn in Dayton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with kitchen skills and efficiency can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining or large hotel kitchens often offer better pay than fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications like ServSafe can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Work Shift: Night or weekend shifts sometimes provide shift differentials boosting pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Salary levels also correspond with Dayton's cost of living and the evolving restaurant market.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Dayton
Becoming a Prep Cook in Dayton involves developing culinary skills and obtaining relevant certifications:
- Culinary Arts Program at Sinclair Community College: This program offers hands-on training in food preparation, safety, and kitchen management, ideal for aspiring cooks.
- Culinary Training at Miami Valley Career Technology Center: Practical culinary skills and industry knowledge are emphasized here to prepare students for food service careers.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: A nationally recognized program educating workers on essential food safety practices.
- Ohio Manager Certification in Food Protection: Required by Ohio’s Department of Health, this certifies knowledge of proper food safety protocols for managerial roles.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Dayton
Several well-known establishments in Dayton are actively hiring Prep Cooks, including:
- P.F. Chang's
- Sueno
- First Watch
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Dayton Work At
Prep Cooks in Dayton typically find jobs in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues offer moderate pay and a dynamic kitchen environment.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually provide fast-paced work with entry-level pay scales.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Larger operations often provide higher wages and potential benefits.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Here, the skill level and pay tend to be higher due to the elevated culinary standards.
The type of establishment significantly impacts earnings, with fine dining and hotels often providing top salary benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dayton for Prep Cooks
Individuals interested in similar hospitality roles may consider careers such as:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, roles that share kitchen responsibilities and similar skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Dayton
Prep Cooks in Dayton should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide worker protections and employment standards.
- Visit the State of Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services website for state-specific labor laws including minimum wage and worker benefits.
- The City of Dayton's official website provides local ordinances and workforce resources.