Prep Cook Salary in Evanston, IL
Prep Cooks in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.80 per hour, which translates to about $792.00 per week, $3,432.00 per month, and $41,184.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Evanston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those pursuing a career in this role within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Evanston varies based on experience and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of hourly to yearly earnings at different career levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.50 | $740.00 | $3,186.67 | $38,480.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.92 | $876.80 | $3,790.93 | $45,593.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Evanston Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is focused behind the scenes, preparing ingredients rather than direct customer service. Their earnings typically come solely from their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $17.94 per hour, which equates to roughly $37,315.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Evanston earn a higher hourly wage of $19.80 and an annual salary of approximately $41,184.00. This reflects local economic factors and demand in the Evanston area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks, which may be worth considering for job seekers.
- Downtown Evanston: $21.92 per hour
- Northwestern University Area: $20.00 per hour
Downtown Evanston presents the highest hourly pay for Prep Cooks, making it a competitive location for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Evanston?
Various factors can influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Evanston:
- Experience: More seasoned Prep Cooks tend to command higher wages due to greater efficiency and skill.
- Skills: Specialized skills such as knife techniques or familiarity with diverse cuisines can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catered events usually pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working night or weekend shifts might provide premium pay.
- Local Demand: Evanston's proximity to educational institutions and vibrant dining scenes affects job availability and wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Evanston
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Evanston, it is helpful to follow these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions such as Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training including food preparation and safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles in kitchens provide valuable hands-on learning.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification demonstrate knowledge required by employers.
- Continue Learning: Programs at Kendall College Culinary Arts Program provide extensive professional culinary education, enhancing skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Evanston
Some notable establishments looking to hire Prep Cooks include:
- Steak N Shake
- The Merion
- Le Bistro Bordeaux
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Evanston Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in various types of dining venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer consistent opportunities, typically with moderate pay rates.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often require fast-paced preparation skills but might offer lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These venues can provide higher salaries and varied experience.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Although fewer in number, these restaurants often pay more due to the skill level required.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary, with upscale and specialized venues offering better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in careers similar to Prep Cook, consider these related roles:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Prep Cook, roles that share culinary skills with a focus on food preparation in food service establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Evanston
Prep Cooks in Evanston should be knowledgeable about federal, state, and local labor laws and taxation policies.
- Review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment and tax information, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- The official Evanston city website provides additional local government resources relevant to employment.