Cook Salary in Paterson, NJ
Cooks in Paterson, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $22.01 per hour, which translates to about $880.40 per week, $3,815.07 per month, and $45,780.80 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Paterson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local culinary job market.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Paterson, NJ?
The salary of a Cook in Paterson varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of how earnings differ across entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,513.33 | $30,146.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.01 | $880.40 | $3,815.07 | $45,780.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $53.85 | $2,154.00 | $9,327.00 | $111,804.00 |
Do Cooks in Paterson Earn Tips?
Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily based in the kitchen and behind the scenes, with limited direct interactions with customers. Their compensation is usually salary-based without additional tip income.
Cook Salary in Paterson, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn an average of around $16.05 per hour, translating to about $33,384 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cooks in Paterson earn significantly more, at approximately $22.01 per hour and $45,780.80 annually. This higher salary reflects the local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Paterson for Cooks
Nearby cities offer different pay scales for Cooks. Here are some notable examples:
- Newark: $28.52 per hour
- Jersey City: $20.50 per hour
Cooks considering nearby areas may find better wages in Newark compared to Jersey City, but Paterson remains competitive within the region.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Paterson?
Cooks’ salaries in Paterson can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with proficient skills can negotiate higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and specialty food services tend to pay higher salaries compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certification and Training: Formal culinary education and certifications often increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working night shifts or weekends may come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Labor Demand: Paterson’s growing food industry and demand support higher salaries for qualified Cooks.
How To Become a Cook in Paterson
Embarking on a career as a Cook in Paterson involves a combination of training, experience, and certifications. Some key steps include:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Schools like Passaic County Technical Institute's School of Culinary Arts offer award-winning programs focusing on Culinary Arts with apprenticeships and certifications such as ProStart and ServSafe.
- Gain Practical Experience: Hands-on internships and apprenticeships, such as those provided by The Culinary School at Eva's Village, help refine skills through real kitchen environments.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Certification and the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement demonstrate competency in food safety and culinary skills.
- Build Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and time management abilities enhance employability.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Paterson
Some of the leading employers actively seeking Cooks in Paterson include:
- St. Joseph's Health
- Applebee's
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Cooks in Paterson Work At
Cooks in Paterson find employment in diverse types of establishments, such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual outlets, hotels, catering companies, and healthcare facilities.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary prospects. For instance, upscale restaurants and hotels generally offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement, while fast casual and casual dining may provide rapid entry-level opportunities but with moderate pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Paterson for Cooks
If you are considering careers similar to that of a Cook, several related roles might be of interest, offering alternative paths within the hospitality sector.
These include Line Cook, Head Chef, and Chef roles, each with distinct responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Paterson
Understanding employment laws and tax obligations is essential for Cooks working in Paterson.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, the State of New Jersey's official website is a valuable resource.