Prep Cook Salary in Buffalo, NY
Prep Cooks in Buffalo, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $15.29 per hour, which translates to about $611.60 per week, $2,650.27 per month, and $31,803.20 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Buffalo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field as the foodservice industry expands locally.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Buffalo varies by experience and employer. Here’s an overview of what you can expect at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.35 | $494.00 | $2,140.33 | $25,680.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.29 | $611.60 | $2,650.27 | $31,803.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.92 | $756.80 | $3,269.33 | $39,353.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Buffalo Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mainly in the kitchen preparing ingredients and supporting chefs rather than direct customer service. Their earnings are generally limited to their hourly wage or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Buffalo, NY vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Buffalo earn a slightly higher wage at $15.29 per hour and $31,803.20 per year. This notable difference reflects the local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Prep Cooks
Examining nearby neighborhoods shows some variation in pay for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Elmwood Village: $16.80 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Downtown Buffalo tend to earn the highest wages, likely due to a concentration of restaurants and foodservice establishments with higher budgets.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Buffalo?
Several key factors determine the salary of a Prep Cook in Buffalo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills, speed, and knowledge of food safety often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies usually pay more compared to casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or the New York State Food Protection Certificate can increase earning potential.
- Shift Times: Working evenings, nights, or weekends might come with shift differentials that boost pay.
- Location within Buffalo: Wages are higher in bustling commercial districts like Downtown compared to suburban or less busy areas.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Buffalo
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Buffalo involves a combination of training and experience. Here are some steps you can take:
- Enroll in Culinary Training Programs: Programs like the Erie Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute provide comprehensive training in food preparation techniques and kitchen safety.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the New York State Food Protection Certificate are widely recognized and often required.
- Gain Practical Kitchen Experience: Many Prep Cooks start working in kitchen assistant roles or entry-level positions to build hands-on skills.
- Develop Key Skills: Improve knife handling, time management, and sanitation practices to stand out to employers.
Completing such programs and certifications can substantially improve job prospects and salary potential in Buffalo’s foodservice industry.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Buffalo
Several well-known establishments in Buffalo regularly hire Prep Cooks, including:
- Chili's
- The Buffalo Catering Co.
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Buffalo Work At
Prep Cooks find employment across a diverse range of establishments, each affecting salary levels:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer steady work, often with stable schedules but more moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally hiring in high volume, these offer somewhat lower wages but potential for advancement.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Opportunities here often come with higher wages and benefits due to the scale and clientele.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually pay premium wages for Prep Cooks with refined skills and professionalism.
The type of venue has a strong influence on the pay scale and benefits available for Prep Cooks in Buffalo.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo for Prep Cooks
If you are considering careers similar to Prep Cook, you might explore roles such as:
These are Line Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter—positions with overlapping culinary duties and varying salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Buffalo
Prep Cooks in Buffalo should familiarize themselves with federal and state labor laws as well as tax responsibilities.
- At the federal level, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment standards.
- For regulations specific to New York State, explore the New York State Department of Labor website.