Prep Cook Salary in Dearborn, MI
Prep Cooks in Dearborn, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $16.99 per hour, which translates to about $679.60 per week, $2,944.93 per month, and $35,339.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Dearborn is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary support roles in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Dearborn, MI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Dearborn varies depending on experience and specific employer, but below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.48 | $579.20 | $2,504.53 | $30,054.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.99 | $679.60 | $2,944.93 | $35,339.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.94 | $797.60 | $3,456.53 | $41,459.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Dearborn Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their duties usually involve food preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings come mainly from hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Dearborn vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $15.92 per hour, translating to about $33,113.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Dearborn make a bit more, at about $16.99 per hour and $35,339.20 annually.
This difference may be due to local economic factors and regional cost of living in Dearborn, MI.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Dearborn for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offering competitive wages for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown Dearborn: $17.50 per hour
- West Dearborn: $18.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to West Dearborn can find the highest pay near Dearborn for Prep Cook roles.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Dearborn?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Dearborn:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks typically command higher wages.
- Skills: Knowledge of various cuisines and kitchen efficiency can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or high-volume restaurants often yields better pay than casual dining.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can be a plus in negotiating salary.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher hourly rates or shift differentials.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Dearborn
Here are some key steps to start a career as a Prep Cook in Dearborn:
- Education and Training: Enrolling in local culinary programs like the Henry Ford College Culinary Arts Program or the Schoolcraft College Culinary Arts Program provides foundational skills and knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications such as ServSafe Certification is often required by employers to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Entry-Level Kitchen Experience: Starting out in kitchen helper or dishwashing roles can lead to Prep Cook positions.
- Certification as a Certified Culinarian (CC): Offered by the American Culinary Federation, this can validate your culinary skills and boost your resume.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Dearborn
Top companies and establishments hiring Prep Cooks in Dearborn include:
- Ford's Garage
- Olive Garden
- TPC Michigan
- Buddy's Pizza
- The Henry Ford
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Dearborn Work At
Prep Cooks find work in various foodservice settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady work but moderate salary scales.
- Fast Casual Establishments: May offer slightly faster-paced work with competitive hourly rates.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can provide opportunities for higher wages and tips in larger kitchens.
- Specialty and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to pay the highest salaries due to skill demands.
The establishment type influences the pay scale, with upscale locations typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Dearborn for Prep Cooks
If you’re considering careers related to Prep Cook, here are some similar roles:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which require related culinary skills and share similar work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Dearborn
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax policies at the local, state, and federal levels to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- Check the Official website of the State of Michigan for comprehensive state labor laws and employment resources.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor law information and guidance.
- For local regulations and resources, see the City of Dearborn's official website.