Prep Cook Salary in Racine, WI
Prep Cooks in Racine, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.07 per hour, which translates to about $522.80 per week, $2,265.47 per month, and $27,185.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Racine is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a steady need for culinary support staff in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Racine, WI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Racine varies by experience, skill, and employer type. Here's a breakdown of the average earnings at different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.12 | $404.80 | $1,754.13 | $21,049.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.07 | $522.80 | $2,265.47 | $27,185.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.88 | $675.20 | $2,927.47 | $33,110.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Racine Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations rather than direct customer service. Their compensation mostly comes from hourly wages or salaries.
Prep Cook Salary in Racine vs. National Average
Nationally, the average Prep Cook earns about $14.50 per hour, translating to an annual salary of roughly $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Racine earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $13.07 and an annual salary near $27,185.60. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and demand in Racine.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Racine for Prep Cooks
If you are considering working as a Prep Cook nearby Racine, these locations offer higher pay:
- West Allis: $18.33 per hour
- Lake Geneva: $17.52 per hour
These areas offer significantly higher hourly wages, which might be attractive for those willing to commute or relocate for better pay.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Racine?
Several important factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Racine:
- Experience and Skill Level: With more years in cooking and food preparation, Prep Cooks can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or catering companies usually pays better than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications or culinary training can boost salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with pay differentials.
- Location: Pay rates differ significantly across nearby cities and regions.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Racine
Becoming a Prep Cook in Racine often involves a combination of hands-on experience and some educational background. Here are ways to get started:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Gateway Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable skills and practical kitchen knowledge.
- Consider Nearby Options: The Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program is another excellent local resource for culinary education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often a requirement for Prep Cooks.
- Earn a Culinary Arts Certificate: This credential demonstrates foundational cooking skills and can make candidates more attractive to employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Employers value on-the-job experience, so starting as a kitchen helper or assistant can open doors.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Racine
Several well-known restaurant chains and local eateries frequently hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Denny's
- IHOP
- Applebee's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Racine Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work in a variety of food service settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These usually offer a steady workload but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often provide structured shifts but typically lower pay compared to full-service restaurants.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer higher pay and benefits due to upscale clientele and larger kitchens.
- Catering Companies: Can provide opportunities for varied work and sometimes higher compensation during event seasons.
The type of establishment can impact the Prep Cook’s pay, with more prestigious venues generally offering higher salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Racine for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in careers related to Prep Cooking, here are some similar roles worth considering:
These include positions such as Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which share many kitchen responsibilities and offer career advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Racine
Prep Cooks should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal workforce regulations.
- Visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- The City of Racine official website offers local information on employment standards and services.