Prep Cook Salary in Kansas City, KS
Prep Cooks in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $15.11 per hour, which translates to about $604.40 per week, $2,619.07 per month, and $31,428.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities in this culinary support role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Kansas City varies based on experience and employer, with entry-level to top earners seeing a range of pay. Below is a detailed breakdown based on experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.76 | $470.40 | $2,032.00 | $24,384.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.88 | $595.20 | $2,571.20 | $30,902.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.15 | $686.00 | $2,958.67 | $35,672.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their duties are focused in the kitchen and food preparation areas, rather than direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn about $14.50 per hour or roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Kansas City earn slightly more at $15.11 per hour and $31,428.80 annually, reflecting a competitive local market for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas around Kansas City, salary rates for Prep Cooks are:
- Merriam: $15.52 per hour
- Kansas City: $15.11 per hour
Among these, Merriam offers the highest pay, making it a strong choice for Prep Cooks seeking better wages close to Kansas City.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining a Prep Cook's salary in Kansas City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with skills in various culinary techniques can expect higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast casual or deli environments.
- Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler can support better salary offers.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might include additional pay or overtime.
- Local Economic Conditions: Market demand and cost of living in Kansas City affect wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Kansas City
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Kansas City involves a few essential steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Education: Programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in prep cook skills.
- Pursue Hands-On Culinary Training: Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provides practical culinary education focusing on foundational cooking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification improve employability.
- Consider Culinary Certifications: Entry-level certifications such as the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation help establish credentials.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Kansas City
Several companies in Kansas City are known to hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Lifespace Communities
- 7th Street Casino
- IHOP
- Hollywood Casino
- Applebee's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Kansas City Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work in diverse culinary settings in Kansas City:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work but generally more modest salaries.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically provide consistent hours but with lower pay scales.
- Hotels and Casinos: Larger establishments often pay better and may offer benefits.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: These workplaces sometimes offer variable pay depending on contract size and event frequency.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on the salary, with upscale venues generally offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in related roles within the culinary and hospitality field, consider these similar jobs that offer alternative career paths:
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef—positions that share cooking and kitchen duties and provide alternative pathways for career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Kansas City
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and wage standards.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, check the State of Kansas official website.