Prep Cook Salary in Joliet, IL
Prep Cooks in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which translates to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Joliet is growing positively at about 15% per year, showing a solid increase in job opportunities and demand within the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Joliet varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview based on typical experience 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) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,042.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.02 | $1,400.80 | $6,066.93 | $72,873.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Joliet Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focused on food preparation rather than customer service. Their income is typically from hourly wages only.
Prep Cook Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.10 per hour, translating to about $33,488 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Joliet earn slightly more at $17.55 per hour and $36,504 annually, reflecting local demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas with higher salaries for Prep Cooks include:
- Naperville, IL: $21.50 per hour
- Aurora, IL: $19.50 per hour
Those willing to commute to Naperville or Aurora may find better pay compared to Joliet's average.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Joliet?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations of Prep Cooks in Joliet:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with knife skills and knowledge of kitchen operations can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or large hotels generally offer better pay than casual or fast food venues.
- Certifications and Training: Having culinary certifications or food safety training can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working evening, night, or holiday shifts may come with extra compensation.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Joliet
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Joliet, consider these key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Joliet Junior College provide comprehensive training including cooking methods, sanitation, and management techniques. The program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation.
- Complete Hands-On Training: The Culinary Arts Program at Joliet Job Corps Center offers practical experience working with commercial kitchen equipment and food preparation skills, leading to certifications such as Certified Culinarian or Certified Chef.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly valued by employers and required by many food service establishments.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level roles in fast casual or casual restaurants provide valuable on-the-job experience.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Joliet
Some of the prominent employers seeking Prep Cooks in Joliet include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Harrah's Joliet Casino
- Hollywood Casino
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Joliet Work At
Prep Cooks typically find work in several types of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: Often entry points with steady work hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: These may offer structured work environments and benefits with competitive pay.
- Hotels and Casinos: Generally higher paying establishments with opportunities for advancement.
- Catering and Event Venues: Seasonal work but potentially higher wages for experienced prep cooks.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary, with upscale locations and casinos paying more than fast casuals.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Prep Cooks
If you are considering similar roles in the hospitality industry, here are some related careers:
The related careers include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, which involve related kitchen roles with varied responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Joliet
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations helps Prep Cooks manage their employment effectively.
- Information on Illinois state labor laws, including minimum wage and workplace regulations, can be found at the Illinois government website.
- For federal labor standards and employment statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor website is an essential resource: dol.gov.