Prep Cook Salary in Des Moines, IA
Prep Cooks in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.15 per hour, which translates to about $606.00 per week, $2,626.00 per month, and $31,512.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling promising opportunities for those entering this essential role in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Des Moines varies depending on experience, but here’s a breakdown by level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.34 | $453.60 | $1,965.60 | $23,587.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.15 | $606.00 | $2,626.00 | $31,512.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.23 | $809.20 | $3,494.13 | $41,918.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work happens mainly behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting kitchen operations. Their earnings usually come from wages or salaries alone.
Prep Cook Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.83 per hour, equating to roughly $35,006.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Des Moines earn slightly less, at about $15.15 per hour and $31,512.00 annually.
This difference may reflect local living costs and industry demand in the Des Moines area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Prep Cooks
If you're open to nearby locations, consider these cities with higher pay for Prep Cooks:
- Ankeny: $16.73 per hour
- Iowa City: $15.99 per hour
Exploring jobs in these areas could offer increased earning potential for Prep Cooks.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Des Moines:
- Experience and Skills: More experience and proficiency with knife skills and food preparation techniques usually lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and larger catering companies often offer better wages than fast-food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with extra pay incentives.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications such as ServSafe can improve employability and salary.
- Local Demand: The growth rate and demand for Prep Cooks in Des Moines influence wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Des Moines
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Des Moines involves a few key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Training: Programs like the Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in culinary skills for the food service industry.
- Advanced Education: For those seeking further specialization, the Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC offers advanced culinary education with international opportunities.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often necessary and shows knowledge of food safety standards.
- Entry-Level Culinary Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level credential demonstrating foundational culinary skills.
- Gain Experience: Starting in kitchens as helper roles helps build practical skills and connect with potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Des Moines
Some of the prominent employers regularly seeking Prep Cooks in Des Moines include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Des Moines Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across a range of food service establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: These often provide steady work but may pay on the lower end of the scale.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering potentially better pay and opportunities for skill development.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Usually pay more and may offer benefits and more structured career paths.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: Demand precision and skill, often corresponding with higher wages for Prep Cooks.
The establishment type can significantly impact Prep Cook salaries, with upscale and full-service venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers similar to becoming a Prep Cook, consider exploring these related roles:
This list includes Line Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Pastry Cook, which share similar skill sets and kitchen environments with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Des Moines
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Iowa official state website for comprehensive information on state-specific labor laws and employment regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website provides federal labor law resources and standards relevant to Prep Cooks.