Prep Cook in Warren, MI
Prep Cooks in Warren, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Warren is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in food preparation roles within the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Warren, MI?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Warren can vary depending on experience and their employer, but the following table provides an overview of earnings at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Warren Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Warren vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Warren earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually, reflecting regional variations in cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Warren for Prep Cooks
Nearby establishments offering competitive wages for Prep Cooks include:
- Big Boy Restaurants: $15.09 per hour
- Chili's: $14.95 per hour
Working at these locations near Warren can provide slightly higher pay compared to the city average for Prep Cooks.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Warren?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Warren can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Experience Level and Skills: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined culinary skills or specialization often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or hotels may earn more than those in casual dining or fast food settings.
- Certifications: Holding food safety certifications such as ServSafe can increase job prospects and salary potential.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Those taking on night shifts or extended hours may receive higher pay or shift differentials.
- Local Economic Factors: Regional demand for culinary staff and cost of living affect overall salary levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Warren
To pursue a career as a Prep Cook in Warren, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Enroll in programs such as the Macomb Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers certificates and associate's degrees in culinary arts, training you in essential cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Advanced Education: Henry Ford College offers a bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts and Hospitality for those seeking advanced knowledge and management skills in food services.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications like ServSafe Manager-Level Food Safety Certification to demonstrate your understanding of proper food handling, or ServSafe Allergen Certification to ensure safe food preparation for customers with allergies.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Work in kitchens as an assistant or apprentice to develop practical skills and professional networks.
- Build Soft Skills: Communication, multitasking, and attention to detail are vital to succeeding as a Prep Cook.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Warren
Several prominent employers in Warren are actively hiring Prep Cooks, including:
- Big Boy Restaurants
- Chili's
- Applebee's
- Buddy's Pizza
- Hungry Howie's Pizza
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Warren Work At
Prep Cooks in Warren typically work in a variety of food service establishments ranging from:
- Fast Food: With rapid-paced environments, offering modest wages but abundant entry-level opportunities.
- Casual and Family Restaurants: These often provide more stable hours and slightly better pay.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Demanding higher skill levels and typically offering higher salaries and possibilities for advancement.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May provide diverse experiences and potentially more comprehensive benefits and pay structures.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Prep Cook’s salary, with fine dining and hotels generally paying more due to the complexity and prestige of their kitchens.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Warren for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in related careers within hospitality and culinary fields, consider these roles that share skill sets with Prep Cooks:
These positions include Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, providing pathways for career advancement and specialized culinary work.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Warren
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Prep Cooks to ensure compliance with employment standards:
- For federal labor laws, wage regulations, and employment statistics, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Michigan-specific labor laws and workforce resources, see the State of Michigan's official website.