Prep Cook in Louisville, KY
Prep Cooks in Louisville, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $14.05 per hour, which translates to about $562.00 per week, $2,435.33 per month, and $29,224.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Louisville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job seekers interested in culinary support roles within the city's vibrant food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Louisville varies based on experience and employer, but the following provides a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.51 | $420.40 | $1,819.47 | $21,860.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,435.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.80 | $752.00 | $3,240.67 | $38,976.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Louisville Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their roles are mainly behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting the kitchen staff. Their income is generally limited to their hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.05 per hour, or approximately $29,224 per year.
Louisville's wages for Prep Cooks align closely with the national average, offering competitive compensation for culinary assistants within the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Prep Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods that pay higher averages for Prep Cooks include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Highlands: $17.60 per hour
These areas reflect higher living costs and increased demand, potentially offering better earnings for culinary professionals.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Louisville?
Several important factors impact the earning potential of a Prep Cook in Louisville:
- Experience Level: Those with more hands-on culinary experience generally command higher wages.
- Skill Set: Proficiency in knife skills, food safety, and kitchen operations can increase pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty kitchens often pay higher than fast food or casual dining.
- Certification and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe can improve employment prospects and compensation.
- Shift Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays could come with shift differentials that boost salary.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Louisville
Launching a career as a Prep Cook in Louisville involves a few key steps:
- Complete Culinary Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Jefferson Community and Technical College or training at the Louisville Culinary Institute provide foundational skills and industry knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Kentucky Food Manager Certification are highly regarded and sometimes required.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level kitchen positions, internships, or apprenticeships help build valuable skills.
- Network and Apply: Engage with local culinary networks and apply to various establishments to gain employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Louisville
Some of the leading employers looking to hire Prep Cooks in Louisville include:
- Grassa Gramma
- Goodwood Brewing
- BRISTOL BAR AND GRILL
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Louisville Work At
Prep Cooks can be found working in a range of food service establishments, each influencing the salary and work environment:
- Casual Dining: Often provides steady hours but may offer lower wages compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual: Fast-paced and usually entry-level with standard hourly pay.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: These establishments may offer better pay, tips indirectly through kitchen bonuses, and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering and Institutional Kitchens: May offer unique experiences and varied pay scales.
The type of establishment can significantly affect pay scale, working conditions, and potential career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Prep Cooks
Professionals interested in culinary roles similar to Prep Cook might explore these occupations:
These careers include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Chef de Partie, which involve related culinary preparation and kitchen responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Louisville
Prep Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations to safeguard their rights and ensure compliance.
- Federal labor regulations are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment standards and resources, visit the Kentucky Career Center.
- The Louisville Metro Government website offers local labor-related information and guidelines.