Prep Cook Salary in Kansas City, MO
Prep Cooks in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.35 per hour, which translates to about $694.00 per week, $3,007.33 per month, and $36,088.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Kansas City varies based on experience level and employer, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.61 | $584.40 | $2,528.40 | $30,340.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.35 | $694.00 | $3,007.33 | $36,088.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.61 | $824.40 | $3,561.53 | $42,868.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips because their role is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than interacting directly with customers.
Prep Cook Salary in Kansas City, MO vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $17.35 per hour, which translates to about $36,088 per year.
Prep Cooks in Kansas City, MO, earn very close to the national average, with approximately $17.35 per hour and $36,088 annually. This suggests the local market offers competitive pay matching nationwide standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $19.00 per hour
Working in Country Club Plaza can provide higher hourly wages for Prep Cooks compared to Downtown or other areas.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors influence a Prep Cook's salary in Kansas City:
- Experience: More years in the kitchen often mean higher hourly wages due to increased skill and efficiency.
- Skill Set: Knowledge of food safety, proper preparation techniques, and knife skills can positively impact pay.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually earn more than those in casual dining or fast food settings.
- Certifications: Possession of food handling or culinary certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials increasing overall earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Kansas City
Becoming a Prep Cook in Kansas City involves several steps to obtain relevant skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive, hands-on culinary education preparing students for kitchen roles.
- Enroll in Culinary Courses: Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provides focused training on kitchen management, food safety, and cooking fundamentals, ideal for aspiring Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required by employers to ensure food safety compliance.
- Earn Culinary Certification: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential from the American Culinary Federation demonstrates foundational culinary skills and can enhance job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Kansas City
Kansas City's vibrant dining scene includes key employers hiring Prep Cooks such as:
- The Capital Grille
- McCormick & Schmick's
- Jack Stack Barbecue
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Kansas City Work At
Prep Cooks find employment across various types of establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These places often have higher turnover and a steady need for Prep Cooks, though wages may be moderate compared to finer dining.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Paying higher wages due to the required precision and culinary skill level.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Offering stable employment with potential benefits and training for career growth.
- Institutional Kitchens: Such as schools or hospitals, where pay can vary widely but often includes steady hours.
The type of establishment greatly affects the Prep Cook's salary, with upscale and specialized venues generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers related to Prep Cooking, consider exploring similar roles that provide different responsibilities and pay grades.
This includes related positions such as Line Cook, Prep Cook (across other establishments), and Kitchen Supervisor roles, all involving culinary preparation and kitchen management duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Kansas City
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements. Useful resources include:
- U.S. Department of Labor website providing federal labor laws and regulations.
- Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website offering state-specific labor information and resources.
- Official Kansas City, MO Website for local government information and services.