Cook Salary in Camden, NJ
Cooks in Camden, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Camden is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding workforce need for culinary professionals in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Camden, NJ?
The salary of a Cook in Camden can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| 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) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Cooks in Camden Earn Tips?
Cooks in Camden typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is usually limited to wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Cook Salary in Camden vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Camden make significantly more at approximately $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually.
This higher wage reflects the local job market conditions and cost of living in the Camden area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Camden for Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Cooks include:
- Cherry Hill: $22.11 per hour
- Mount Holly: $22.36 per hour
These locations provide opportunities for Cooks seeking higher wages within commuting distance from Camden.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Camden?
Several factors commonly influence how much a Cook can earn in Camden:
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks often command higher salaries due to greater culinary skills and efficiency.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of specialty cuisines or kitchen equipment can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Cooks in upscale or fine dining restaurants are likely to earn more than those in fast food outlets.
- Certifications: Culinary certifications and food safety training can enhance salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with pay differentials.
How To Become a Cook in Camden
Starting a career as a Cook in Camden involves several key steps to improve your employability and earning potential.
- Complete Culinary Training: Camden County College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive education and hands-on experience essential for Cooks.
- Consider Nutrition Studies: Programs like Rowan University Bachelor of Science in Nutrition provide useful knowledge for specialized cooking roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation help demonstrate your competence.
- Gain Practical Work Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships can help build skills and industry contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Camden
Several well-known employers seeking Cooks in Camden include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Cooks in Camden Work At
Cooks in Camden find employment in a variety of settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and competitive pay based on customer volume.
- Fast Casual Chains: These offer structured shifts and can be good starting points for cooks.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually offer higher wages reflecting the complexity of dishes and skill requirements.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Cooks for large-scale food preparation often with benefits included.
The type of establishment directly affects salary ranges due to varying expectations, clientele, and required culinary expertise.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Camden for Cooks
If you’re interested in roles related to being a Cook, here are some similar careers to consider:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Commis Chef—positions that share culinary responsibilities and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Camden
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for all Cooks to ensure proper working conditions and compliance.
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for information on wage laws and labor rights.
- The State of New Jersey's official site offers resources specific to New Jersey’s labor laws and regulations.