Prep Cook Salary in Omaha, NE
Prep Cooks in Omaha, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $16.98 per hour, which translates to about $679.20 per week, $2,943.20 per month, and $35,318.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Omaha is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for individuals seeking work in this role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Omaha, NE?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Omaha varies by experience and skill, but here’s a breakdown at different 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) | $16.98 | $679.20 | $2,943.20 | $35,318.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,433.33 | $41,392.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Omaha Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips. Their work often takes place behind the scenes, focused on preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Therefore, their compensation mainly comes from their base wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Omaha vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn on average about $16.98 per hour and $35,318.40 per year.
In Omaha, Prep Cooks are paid very close to this national average, with a similar hourly wage and annual salary. This parity reflects Omaha’s balanced cost of living along with steady demand for culinary support roles in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Omaha for Prep Cooks
Looking near Omaha, Nebraska, here are a couple of areas that offer competitive salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Elkhorn: $17.74 per hour
- Papillion: $16.97 per hour
Elkhorn offers a slightly higher hourly pay, making it an attractive nearby location for Prep Cooks seeking better compensation, while Papillion’s wages closely match Omaha’s.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Omaha?
Several important factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Omaha:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with developed culinary skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants may pay more compared to fast food or casual dining locations.
- Location Within Metro Area: Salaries can vary slightly by neighborhood or suburb, reflecting local demand.
- Certifications: Having food safety and culinary certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Evening or overnight shifts may pay differential rates boosting income.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Omaha
Working as a Prep Cook requires both practical skills and knowledge of food safety. Here are some steps to take:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program provide essential hands-on experience.
- Specialized Courses: The Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College offers focused courses on preparation techniques valuable for Prep Cooks.
- Get Certified: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is important for food safety compliance, and the Certified Food Protection Manager credential is also well regarded.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level kitchen jobs or internships help build foundational skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Omaha
Several well-known establishments hire Prep Cooks in and around Omaha, such as:
- Pizza Hut
- Village Inn
- McDonald's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Omaha Work At
Prep Cooks find employment across diverse food service venues, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Often offer steady wages and opportunity to learn kitchen operations.
- Fast casual establishments: Typically provide experience with quicker prep and smaller menus, sometimes with slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and catering companies: Generally pay higher wages and offer professional growth options.
- Fine dining restaurants: Require more advanced skills and often compensate accordingly.
The average salary is influenced by the caliber and size of the establishment as well as the complexity of the culinary work involved.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Omaha for Prep Cooks
If you are considering roles similar to Prep Cook in the hospitality and food service sector, here are a few options:
These include roles such as Fry Cook, Cook, and Pastry Cook, which share similar culinary preparation responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Omaha
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax considerations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Check the Federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor standards.
- For Nebraska-specific regulations, visit the Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- The City of Omaha official site offers resources related to local employment laws and services.