Prep Cook Salary in Elgin, IL
Prep Cooks in Elgin, 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 Elgin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those entering this field in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Elgin, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Elgin varies with experience and specific employer, but the following breakdown represents typical earnings at 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 | $3,741.87 | $44,931.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Elgin Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in the kitchen and not directly customer-facing. Their earnings primarily come from salaries or wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Elgin vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $16.75 per hour, or roughly $34,840 per year.
Compared with this, Prep Cooks in Elgin make a slightly higher average hourly wage of $17.94, resulting in an annual salary of $37,315.20. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elgin for Prep Cooks
When exploring areas near Elgin, salaries for Prep Cooks differ as follows:
- Downtown Elgin: $18.50 per hour
- South Elgin: $19.00 per hour
South Elgin offers the highest wages for Prep Cooks nearby, slightly above Downtown Elgin and the city average.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Elgin?
Several key factors influence the salary of Prep Cooks in Elgin, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Prep Cooks with years of experience or specialty kitchen skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or country clubs usually pays better than casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Work: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials increasing hourly pay.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary certifications and food safety training can improve salary prospects.
- Local Demand: Economic factors and demand in the Elgin area also impact wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Elgin
Becoming a Prep Cook in Elgin involves several important steps to build the right qualifications and experience.
Educational programs such as an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts at Elgin Community College offer comprehensive training in cooking fundamentals, baking, and food service management.
Specialized certificate programs like the Pastry Arts Certificate at ECC focus on baking techniques and dessert preparation, enhancing kitchen skills.
In addition, certifications like the ServSafe Food Manager Certification, which verifies knowledge of food safety practices, and the Responsible Alcohol Service Certification can boost employability.
Practical experience through internships or entry-level kitchen positions is crucial to build hands-on skills in food preparation, knife handling, and kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Elgin
The following employers in Elgin seek qualified Prep Cooks:
- IHOP
- Chili's
- Elgin Country Club
- Dunkin' - Baskin Robbins
- Miller's Ale House
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Elgin Work At
Prep Cooks in Elgin find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically offer entry-level opportunities but may have lower pay.
- Country Clubs and Hotels: Usually offer higher salaries and benefits due to upscale clientele and volume.
- Bakeries and Catering Services: Can provide specialized roles within food preparation.
The establishment type can significantly affect hourly wages and advancement opportunities for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elgin for Prep Cooks
If you're exploring careers related to being a Prep Cook, consider positions within the hospitality industry that share skills and responsibilities.
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Cook roles, each involving culinary skills closely connected to the work of a Prep Cook.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Elgin
Prep Cooks should stay informed about relevant laws and regulations that affect employment conditions and taxation in Elgin.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific Illinois state labor law information is available at the official Illinois government site.
- Local government labor resources and regulations can be found on the City of Elgin official website.