Prep Cook Salary in Overland-Park, KS
Prep Cooks in Overland-Park, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $14.88 per hour, which translates to about $595.20 per week, $2,579.20 per month, and $30,950.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Overland-Park is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities for individuals entering this profession annually.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Overland-Park, KS?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Overland-Park varies depending on experience and employer type. Here's an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.76 | $470.40 | $2,033.60 | $24,403.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.88 | $595.20 | $2,579.20 | $30,950.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.83 | $753.20 | $3,262.13 | $39,166.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Overland-Park Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than direct customer service roles.
Prep Cook Salary in Overland-Park, KS vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Overland-Park make slightly more at around $14.88 per hour and $30,950.40 annually, which reflects a competitive local market for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Overland-Park for Prep Cooks
Nearby cities where Prep Cooks earn higher wages include:
- Merriam: $15.52 per hour
- Kansas City: $15.11 per hour
Working in Merriam or Kansas City could offer better pay than Overland-Park for Prep Cooks, depending on commuting preferences and job availability.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Overland-Park?
Several important factors impact how much a Prep Cook can earn in Overland-Park:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks or those with additional culinary skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels may result in better pay than fast casual or smaller eateries.
- Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC) can boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Overland-Park
Starting a career as a Prep Cook involves a few key steps for success:
- Gain Culinary Training: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Kansas City Kansas Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational training and practical experience.
- Acquire Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often essential for working safely and complying with regulations.
- Obtain Professional Certification: The Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates basic culinary skills and knowledge.
- Build Experience: Entry-level roles or internships in kitchens help develop valuable hands-on skills and open opportunities for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Overland-Park
Several reputable establishments actively seek Prep Cooks in Overland-Park, including:
- Erickson Senior Living
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Red Door Grill
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Overland-Park Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in a wide range of food service settings, each influencing salary levels differently:
- Fast Casual and Casual Restaurants: Typically provide steady work hours but moderate pay rates.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often pay higher wages and offer opportunities for increased responsibility.
- Senior Living Facilities: May offer consistent schedules and benefits but lower hourly pay compared to fine dining.
The prestige, scale, and clientele of the establishment have a notable impact on earnings, with larger and upscale venues typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Overland-Park for Prep Cooks
Individuals interested in similar roles to Prep Cook might consider related positions in the hospitality industry, which share core skills and responsibilities.
This includes roles such as Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef, which offer different career pathways within culinary operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Overland-Park
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper workplace rights.
- Refer to the federal Department of Labor website for information on labor laws and worker protections.
- The State of Kansas official website provides resources on employment laws and labor standards specific to Kansas.
- For local guidelines, visit the Overland Park city website for employment and labor resources.