Prep Cook in Detroit, MI
Prep Cooks in Detroit, MI, in 2026, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Detroit is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local culinary industry for entry-level kitchen staff.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Detroit, MI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Detroit varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.65 | $826.00 | $3,571.33 | $42,952.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Detroit Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is largely behind the scenes in food preparation. Their compensation usually consists solely of their base pay or hourly wage without additional tips.
Prep Cook Salary in Detroit vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $17.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $35,360 per year.
The salary for Prep Cooks in Detroit aligns closely with this national average, making Detroit a competitive market for this entry-level kitchen role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Detroit for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay for Prep Cooks, with some locations paying a little more than Detroit's average:
- Ann Arbor: $17.12 per hour
- Sterling Heights: $16.50 per hour
Among these, Ann Arbor offers the highest hourly wage for Prep Cooks, which could be a consideration for job seekers willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Detroit?
Several factors impact how much a Prep Cook can earn in Detroit:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks often command higher wages due to skill proficiency and speed.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of specific cuisines or advanced food prep techniques can boost salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants might pay more compared to casual dining or fast food chains.
- Shift and Hours: Working late-night or weekend shifts could include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications related to food safety or culinary arts may enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Detroit
Becoming a Prep Cook in Detroit involves several actionable steps that can accelerate entry and career progression in the culinary industry.
Firstly, many start with formal culinary education programs. For example, the Detroit Institute of Gastronomy offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts through a faculty-led online apprenticeship, blending coursework with real-world cooking experience.
Additionally, credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely recognized and demonstrate essential knowledge of food safety practices, which are often required in food service roles.
The American Culinary Federation Certification also provides various certifications that can increase credibility and help with career advancement for aspiring culinary professionals.
Practical experience in kitchens, combined with these credentials, helps build a solid foundation for growth as a Prep Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Detroit
Several notable employers actively seek capable Prep Cooks in Detroit, including:
- McDonald's
- MotorCity Casino
- Prime + Proper
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Detroit Work At
Prep Cooks commonly find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These positions often offer entry-level opportunities but at lower wages compared to other venues.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: These tend to pay more than fast food and may offer more diverse food preparation tasks.
- Fine Dining and Hotel Kitchens: These establishments usually offer higher wages and require more advanced skills.
- Catering and Event Services: Temporary or ongoing roles that can pay competitively depending on the event size.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary because of the varying skill demands and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Detroit for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring similar careers to Prep Cook, the hospitality industry offers various roles with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which share responsibilities in kitchen preparation and food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Detroit
Prep Cooks in Detroit should be knowledgeable about local and federal labor laws affecting their employment.
- Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity website offers comprehensive information on employment rights, wage rules, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's site provides guidance on standards including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety.