Prep Cook Salary in Rockford, IL
Prep Cooks in Rockford, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $640.00 per week, $2,773.33 per month, and $33,280.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Rockford is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those seeking employment in this essential culinary role.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Rockford varies based on experience and employer size. Below is a detailed breakdown of wages across different experience 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) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.25 | $730.00 | $3,146.67 | $37,960.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Rockford Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes, preparing ingredients for chefs and kitchen staff without direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Rockford, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Rockford earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $16.00 and annual earnings of $33,280.00. This may reflect local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Prep Cooks
Salary rates for Prep Cooks vary in the nearby Rockford areas:
- Downtown Rockford: $17.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $16.50 per hour
Downtown Rockford offers the highest compensation, which might be due to a concentration of higher-end restaurants and catering services.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Rockford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels generally pays more than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Market Demand: Locations with higher demand for culinary services can influence salary levels.
- Certifications: Holding food safety and culinary certifications may provide an edge in salary negotiations.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Rockford
Becoming a Prep Cook in Rockford involves building foundational culinary skills and gaining relevant experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Programs like the Rock Valley College Culinary Arts Program offer essential cooking techniques and kitchen management skills in Rockford, IL.
- Expand Skills with Additional Training: Kishwaukee College Culinary Arts Program in Malta, IL, provides comprehensive culinary training covering a wide range of skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of food safety practices, often required for food service roles.
- Consider Professional Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) certification from the American Culinary Federation is an entry-level credential that enhances employability.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Seek opportunities in kitchens, internships, or catering services to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Rockford
Several notable employers in Rockford actively hire Prep Cooks:
- Olive Garden
- The Norwegian
- Famous Dave's BBQ
- Compass Group
- Bickford of Rockford
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Rockford Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in various food service establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work but often have more modest pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Typically feature fast-paced work environments with competitive but lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Often provide higher salary opportunities and benefits due to scale and customer expectations.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These venues usually pay more and require a greater degree of skill.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the salary range, with higher-end locations generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Prep Cooks
If you're considering similar hospitality roles related to Prep Cook, here are a few options that might interest you:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Commis Chef positions, which involve related culinary responsibilities and offer varied pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Rockford
Prep Cooks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax obligations at federal, state, and local levels to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on Illinois state employment and labor information can be found at Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- For local rules and resources, check the City of Rockford official website.