Cook Salary in Cherry Hill, NJ
Cooks in Cherry Hill, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.89 per hour, which translates to about $715.60 per week, $3,100.93 per month, and $37,211.20 per year.
The job market for Cooks in Cherry Hill is growing at around 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for culinary professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Cherry Hill, NJ?
The salary of a Cook in Cherry Hill varies depending on experience level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different stages of a Cook’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.18 | $606.80 | $2,632.93 | $31,594.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.89 | $715.60 | $3,100.93 | $37,211.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.09 | $843.60 | $3,638.40 | $43,747.20 |
Do Cooks in Cherry Hill Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is performed behind the scenes in kitchens rather than in direct contact with customers.
Cook Salary in Cherry Hill vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks make about $15.98 per hour, or approximately $33,238.40 per year.
Cooks in Cherry Hill earn slightly more than the national average, with an hourly wage of $17.89 and $37,211.20 annually.
This difference may be attributed to the regional cost of living and the local demand for culinary skills.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cherry Hill for Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive salary figures for Cooks as well:
- Mount Laurel: $17.79 per hour
Mount Laurel provides a salary just below Cherry Hill’s, reflecting a robust employment market in the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Cherry Hill?
Several factors play a critical role in determining how much a Cook can earn in Cherry Hill.
- Experience Level: More experienced Cooks tend to command higher wages due to their refined culinary skills.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or specialty culinary venues can provide higher pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Skills and Specializations: Cooks with expertise in particular cuisines or techniques may have better salary prospects.
- Geographical Location: Salaries can vary depending on proximity to urban centers and regional economic conditions.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian can contribute positively to earning potential.
How To Become a Cook in Cherry Hill
Starting a career as a Cook in Cherry Hill typically involves several key steps to enhance skills and employability.
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs like the Rowan College at Burlington County Culinary Arts Program in nearby Mount Holly offer comprehensive hands-on training in culinary techniques.
- Pursue Further Education: The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College in Philadelphia offers degrees in culinary arts and valuable gastronomic experiences.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure standards compliance in New Jersey kitchens.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential is a helpful way to demonstrate foundational culinary skills and knowledge.
- Develop Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or apprenticeships help build essential kitchen skills and open doors to advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Cherry Hill
Many established organizations in Cherry Hill and the surrounding area regularly seek qualified Cooks, including:
- Silver Healthcare
- Seasons 52
- Bahama Breeze
- Aramark
- Lahn Hospitality and Amusement Group
Establishments That Cooks in Cherry Hill Work At
Cooks in Cherry Hill commonly find employment at a variety of food service venues, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide opportunities across different cuisine types and may offer moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: These kitchens often focus on volume and consistency and may provide foundational skills and steady work.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end dining services can offer better pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Catering Facilities and Healthcare Institutions: These sectors require specialized menu preparation and can influence salary positively.
The type of establishment impacts both responsibilities and salary, with upscale venues offering better compensation generally.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cherry Hill for Cooks
If you're interested in similar hospitality roles, here are a few careers related to cooking you might consider exploring.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Manager, each offering different levels of responsibility and salary.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Cherry Hill
Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to employment in Cherry Hill and New Jersey.
- For detailed state labor laws and regulations, visit the State of New Jersey's official website.
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.