Prep Cook Salary in Toledo, OH
Prep Cooks in Toledo, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Toledo is growing at a healthy rate of about 5% per year, indicating good job prospects and an expanding need for culinary support professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Toledo, OH?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Toledo can vary based on experience level and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Toledo Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities are mostly behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily based on hourly wages.
Prep Cook Salary in Toledo vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $15.43 per hour, which amounts to approximately $32,094.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Toledo earn slightly more, at around $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually. This reflects Toledo's competitive culinary labor market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Toledo for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying pay levels for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Toledo: $18.00 per hour
- West Toledo: $17.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Toledo may find higher salary opportunities than those in West Toledo, reflecting factors like business density and employer resources.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Toledo?
Several factors can affect how much a Prep Cook earns in Toledo:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to earn higher wages.
- Culinary Skills: Specialized skills like knife proficiency, ingredient knowledge, and speed influence pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or foodservice operations generally pay better than fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe can positively impact salary.
- Shift Hours: Working nights or weekends may come with shift differentials.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Toledo
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Toledo may involve the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training Programs: For example, Owens Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive culinary skills training, and Penta Career Center Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on experience essential for this role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation help demonstrate knowledge and compliance with health regulations.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level roles in kitchens or foodservice establishments provide valuable experience.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Toledo
Several well-known employers in Toledo frequently seek Prep Cooks, including:
- First Watch
- Mainstreet Ventures
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Toledo Work At
Prep Cooks typically work in various settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with typical wage ranges.
- Fast Casual Chains: Offer fast-paced environments—pay may be more standardized but sometimes lower.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: May offer higher pay due to skill requirements and prestige.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations sometimes provide better benefits and pay.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary and career advancement prospects for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Toledo for Prep Cooks
If you are considering related roles in hospitality and culinary fields, here are some similar positions to explore:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, which share related skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Toledo
Prep Cooks in Toledo should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their employee rights.
- You can learn about federal labor laws on the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- Specific Ohio state rules and services are available at the Ohio Job and Family Services website.
- The City of Toledo official site provides resources for local regulations and support.