Cook Salary in Hackensack, NJ
Cooks in Hackensack, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $24.19 per hour, which translates to about $967.60 per week, $4,192.93 per month, and $50,315.20 per year.
The job demand for Cooks in Hackensack is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increased opportunities in the food service industry locally.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Hackensack, NJ?
The salary of a Cook in Hackensack varies with experience, skill, and employer type. Here's an overview of wages at different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.49 | $899.60 | $3,895.47 | $46,779.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.19 | $967.60 | $4,192.93 | $50,315.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.09 | $1,083.60 | $4,679.47 | $56,347.20 |
Do Cooks in Hackensack Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work mostly happens behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings come mainly from wages or salaries.
Cook Salary in Hackensack vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $15.40 per hour, equivalent to about $32,032 per year.
Cooks in Hackensack make significantly more than the national average, with wages at about $24.19 per hour and $50,315.20 annually. This gap reflects the higher living costs and demand for skilled kitchen staff in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hackensack for Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Cooks:
- Downtown Hackensack: $25.50 per hour
- Fairmount: $26.00 per hour
This suggests that Cooks working in these neighborhoods can expect better pay compared to other local areas.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Hackensack?
Several factors can influence the salary a Cook receives in Hackensack:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Cooks with advanced culinary skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining chains.
- Shift Timing: Evening or overnight shifts may offer shift differentials, boosting pay.
- Education and Certification: Culinary training and certifications can increase earning potential.
- Location within the City: Working in affluent or busy neighborhoods may result in better pay.
How To Become a Cook in Hackensack
Starting a career as a Cook in Hackensack can be facilitated by following these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Bergen Community College Culinary Arts Program offers hands-on training in modern kitchens, while Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Institute provides accredited programs blending practical and theoretical knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Consider certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which ensures an understanding of food safety.
- Earn Culinary Certifications: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation is an excellent entry-level certification demonstrating foundational skills.
- Gain Work Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles to develop skills and progress to higher positions.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Hackensack
Several prominent employers actively seek skilled Cooks in Hackensack, including:
- Hackensack Meridian Health
- Bergen County Academies
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
Establishments That Cooks in Hackensack Work At
Cooks in Hackensack are commonly employed in various types of establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments offer steady work but may have moderate wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically provide better pay and benefits due to scale and customer expectations.
- Catering Companies and Banquet Halls: Can include opportunities for overtime and higher hourly rates during events.
- Healthcare Facilities and Educational Institutions: Employers like hospitals and universities may offer consistent schedules and competitive salaries.
The establishment type directly influences salary levels, with upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hackensack for Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Cook, consider these similar careers that might interest you:
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor, each with distinct responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Hackensack
Cooks working in Hackensack should be knowledgeable about relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- For comprehensive details on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific regulations, including minimum wage and employment standards, check the State of New Jersey's official site.