Prep Cook Salary in Skokie, IL
Prep Cooks in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.83 per hour, which translates to about $713.20 per week, $3,090.53 per month, and $37,086.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Skokie is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating increasing job opportunities and growth potential in the local food service industry annually.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Skokie can vary depending on experience and the type of employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings for 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) | $17.83 | $713.20 | $3,090.53 | $37,086.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.64 | $865.60 | $3,732.27 | $44,931.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Skokie Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings predominantly come from their wages and salary without additional tip income.
Prep Cook Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.75 per hour, translating to about $34,840 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Skokie earn slightly more, at about $17.83 per hour and $37,086.40 annually, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas to Skokie offer varying compensation rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Skokie: $18.50 per hour
- Oakton Park: $17.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Skokie provides slightly higher pay compared to Oakton Park, presenting potential opportunities for better earnings.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Skokie?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Skokie can be impacted by several important factors, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with strong knife skills and efficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels may earn more compared to those in casual dining or fast food.
- Geographic Location: Certain neighborhoods or business districts in and around Skokie can offer different pay scales.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might come with premiums or bonuses affecting pay.
- Certifications and Training: Completing culinary education or food safety certifications can increase earning potential.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Skokie
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Skokie involves several steps to build relevant skills and credentials.
- Obtain Culinary Training: Programs like the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program and Kendall College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive cooking instruction suited for this role.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification is often required or preferred.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working entry-level jobs in kitchens or food preparation areas helps build hands-on skills.
- Build a Professional Network: Engaging with local culinary communities and seeking apprenticeships can open employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Skokie
Several prominent restaurants and chains frequently seek skilled Prep Cooks in the Skokie area, including:
- North Italia
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Uncle Julio's
- Chili's
- Kura Sushi
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Skokie Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in a variety of food service environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady hours but tend to have moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: May involve faster-paced work with competitive pay.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger-scale operations sometimes provide higher salaries and benefits.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often pay more, reflecting the need for skilled prep work in complex menus.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact salary and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Prep Cooks
There are several careers related to Prep Cook positions that might interest job seekers in Skokie, offering varied opportunities within hospitality and culinary fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Skokie
Prep Cooks in Skokie should be mindful of applicable labor laws and tax regulations that govern employment conditions.
- Federal labor regulations and employment standards can be explored on the Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific rules and employment resources, the Illinois Department of Employment Security provides valuable information.