Prep Cook Salary in Springfield, MO
Prep Cooks in Springfield, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.07 per hour, which translates to about $642.80 per week, $2,785.47 per month, and $33,425.60 per year.
The job market for Prep Cooks in Springfield is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating that demand for culinary support roles is steadily increasing in this area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Springfield, MO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Springfield, MO varies depending on experience level and employer, but below is a general overview across different stages of a Prep Cook's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.90 | $556.00 | $2,403.33 | $28,912.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.07 | $642.80 | $2,785.47 | $33,425.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.58 | $743.20 | $3,223.47 | $38,646.40 |
Do Prep Cooks in Springfield Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily in the kitchen and not customer-facing. Their compensation mainly comes from their hourly wages or salaries.
Prep Cook Salary in Springfield, MO vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $16.07 per hour, which is roughly $33,425.60 per year.
The average salary for Prep Cooks in Springfield, MO aligns closely with the national average, offering competitive wages for this role in the local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield for Prep Cooks
Nearby Springfield, certain areas tend to offer slightly higher wages for Prep Cooks:
- Southside: $18.00 per hour
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
Working in the Southside area offers the highest pay potential for Prep Cooks near Springfield, followed closely by Downtown.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Springfield, MO?
Several factors determine how much a Prep Cook can earn in Springfield:
- Experience Level: Those with more years in kitchen prep work or advanced culinary skills typically earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Mastery of food safety and preparation techniques can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or catering companies often provide better pay than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might have shift differentials increasing pay.
- Local Market Demand: Growing culinary scenes tend to offer more job opportunities and sometimes higher salaries.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Springfield, MO
To launch a successful career as a Prep Cook in Springfield, consider these steps:
- Complete culinary training programs such as the Ozarks Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive preparation skills relevant for Prep Cooks.
- The Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership Program offers education on food service operations, beneficial for understanding kitchen workflows.
- Obtain food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Consider achieving the Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC) certification to validate proficiency in kitchen operations and food preparation.
- Gain experience by working in entry-level kitchen positions or internships to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Springfield, MO
Several notable employers actively seek skilled Prep Cooks in Springfield:
- Bricktown Brewery
- Palm & Paddle Grille
- Haruno Sushi Bar and Grill
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Springfield Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment in a wide range of establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These often have high turnover requiring steady kitchen prep support, though wages may be moderate.
- Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants: Pay is usually higher due to the complexity and quality of food preparation.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These can offer competitive wages and varied experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment and benefits, with salaries depending on the property's prestige and size.
The establishment type influences salary significantly, with finer dining and specialized venues providing greater earning potential for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield, MO for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in roles related to Prep Cook, consider exploring other similar hospitality careers.
These related positions include Cook, Fry Cook, and Chef de Partie, which share overlapping skills and offer career advancement options.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Springfield, MO
Prep Cooks should be informed about key labor laws and tax requirements at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to learn about worker rights and standards.
- For Missouri-specific labor guidelines, see the Missouri state labor department website.
- The City of Springfield official website provides local employment rules and resources.