Cook Salary in Trenton, NJ
Cooks in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which amounts to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Cooks in Trenton is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for job opportunities in the culinary field in this area.
How Much Does a Cook Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Cook in Trenton varies with experience and skill level, but here is a general breakdown based on hourly pay rates.
| 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 Trenton Earn Tips?
Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the kitchen scenes with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation generally relies solely on their stated wage or salary.
Cook Salary in Trenton, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Cooks earn around $14.50 per hour, which corresponds to about $30,160.00 per year.
Comparatively, Cooks in Trenton, NJ, earn higher wages, averaging $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually, reflecting regional economic variations and local demand for culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Cooks
Nearby locations with competitive pay rates for Cooks include:
- Downtown Trenton: $19.50 per hour
- Ewing Township: $20.00 per hour
Cooks working in Ewing Township tend to have the highest pay among nearby areas, followed closely by Downtown Trenton.
What Influences a Cook’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Cook in Trenton:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Cooks with refined culinary skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or catering companies typically pays more than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Specialized Culinary Skills: Ability to prepare specific cuisines or manage kitchen operations can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Working late or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials and increased pay.
How To Become a Cook in Trenton
To pursue a career as a Cook in Trenton, consider these steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Mercer County Community College Culinary Arts Program offers an Associate degree that provides essential training and knowledge.
- Attend Cooking Classes: Princeton Adult School Cooking Classes offer opportunities to develop basic and advanced culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and important for food safety compliance.
- Earn Culinary Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation validates fundamental culinary competencies.
Top Employers Hiring Cooks in Trenton
Several major employers in Trenton regularly seek skilled Cooks, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Bonefish Grill
- We Level Up
Establishments That Cooks in Trenton Work At
Cooks in Trenton are employed in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual restaurants: These provide steady hours but may offer moderate wages.
- Fast casual dining: Opportunities may include faster-paced environments with modest pay.
- Hotels and catering services: Often pay more due to volume and expectations.
- Fine dining establishments: These typically pay higher wages due to skill requirements and service standards.
The type of workplace has a strong impact on earning potential and career advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Cooks
If you are interested in positions similar to Cook, consider roles such as:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Kitchen Manager, roles that share culinary expertise and can offer various career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cooks in Trenton
Cooks should ensure they are informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations to safeguard their workplace rights and finances.
- Review New Jersey state labor laws on the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- Consult federal labor laws through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations and resources can be found at the City of Trenton's official site.