Prep Cook Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Prep Cooks in Milwaukee, WI, earn approximately $16.64 per hour, which translates to about $665.60 per week, $2,884.27 per month, and $34,611.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and expanding opportunities for individuals entering this role in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Milwaukee varies with experience, but here is a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.32 | $532.80 | $2,304.40 | $27,705.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.64 | $665.60 | $2,884.27 | $34,611.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.79 | $831.60 | $3,603.73 | $43,243.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their work is focused primarily on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn around $16.64 per hour, or roughly $34,611.20 per year.
The salaries in Milwaukee align closely with the national average, reflecting the city’s competitive food service market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Brookfield: $18.11 per hour
- De Pere: $17.78 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Brookfield can expect to earn more than those in Milwaukee, while De Pere offers a slightly higher wage than Milwaukee as well.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several factors influence how much a Prep Cook can earn in Milwaukee:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills and food handling techniques often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Positions in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pay more than those at fast casual or casual dining locations.
- Certifications: Having food safety certifications can improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts might include shift differentials that increase earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Milwaukee
Becoming a Prep Cook in Milwaukee involves several practical steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: Enroll in programs like the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Waukesha County Technical College Culinary Management Program for hands-on culinary education.
- Obtain Food Handler Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure knowledge of food safety practices.
- Gain Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles or internships to develop relevant skills and industry familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Milwaukee
Several notable employers in Milwaukee frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Sanford Restaurant
- Ardent
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Milwaukee Work At
Prep Cooks in Milwaukee can be employed across various types of food service establishments:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These often provide steady schedules but may have moderate wages.
- Casual Dining: Typically offers salaries aligned with the market average and opportunities for tips in some cases.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Positions here might offer higher wages and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Specialty and Upscale Restaurants: These establishments usually pay premium wages due to higher skill requirements and quality expectations.
The type of establishment can greatly affect a Prep Cook’s salary and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles similar to Prep Cook, consider exploring these related careers:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Line Cook positions, which share many culinary responsibilities and offer different salary ranges and advancement paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Milwaukee
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- Federal labor laws are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment regulations can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- Local employment resources are available at the City of Milwaukee's official website.