Prep Cook Salary in Des-Plaines, IL
Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.94 per hour, which translates to about $717.60 per week, $3,109.60 per month, and $37,315.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and steady job growth in the culinary and food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Des-Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Des-Plaines can vary depending on experience and employer size, but here is a general overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.94 | $717.60 | $3,109.60 | $37,315.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.64 | $865.60 | $3,737.33 | $44,915.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their duties mostly involve ingredient preparation and kitchen support behind the scenes, with minimal direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.75 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,840 per year.
Compared to these figures, Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines earn slightly more, averaging $17.94 per hour and $37,315.20 annually, reflecting a competitive local wage aligned with industry demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer different pay scales for Prep Cooks:
- Big Fish Hospitality: $20.00 per hour
- Wildfire - Glenview: $19.00 per hour
Those willing to commute or work in these venues near Des-Plaines can potentially earn a higher hourly wage.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Des-Plaines?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Des-Plaines. These include:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with improved knife skills and knowledge of kitchen procedures often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and hotels may pay more than fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Culinary Certifications: Additional certifications in food safety or culinary arts can positively impact salary.
- Work Shift: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium wages.
- Location: Wages vary based on the cost of living in Des-Plaines and nearby areas.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Des-Plaines
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in Des-Plaines, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Institutions such as Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training with hands-on experience, preparing students for roles in food service.
- Consider Programs Like Kendall College Culinary Arts Program: This provides practical culinary skills and important industry knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as Food Handler Certification and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification are often mandatory and highly valued by employers.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Start in entry-level positions to develop confidence and skills in a professional kitchen setting.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines
Some of the prominent employers actively seeking Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines include:
- Big Fish Hospitality
- Wildfire - Glenview
- Chili's - Rosemont
- Rivers Casino
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse Rosemont
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment across a range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady demand for prep work but may offer modest pay.
- Fast Casual Venues: These can provide higher pace environments that may offer competitive hourly wages.
- Hotel Kitchens and Banquet Halls: Tend to pay better, reflecting the complexity and volume of food preparation needed.
- Fine Dining: Skill and precision required often come with higher pay scales.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary, with larger operations or upscale venues usually offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Prep Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Prep Cook, here are a few related hospitality jobs in the area:
These roles include Cook, Fry Cook, and Kitchen Porter, which share many responsibilities and skill sets with the Prep Cook position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Des-Plaines
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations at both the federal and state levels to ensure fair employment and compliance.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be accessed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and employment information for Illinois, including Des-Plaines, are available at the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.