Prep Cook Salary in Burlington, VT
Prep Cooks in Burlington, VT, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Burlington is growing moderately at about 5% per year, reflecting a steadily increasing need for culinary support staff in local restaurants and food service businesses.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Burlington, VT?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Burlington varies depending on experience and the employing establishment. Here’s a breakdown by experience level:
| 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) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Burlington Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips because their work is primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen staff. Their compensation comes mainly from hourly wages without tips.
Prep Cook Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Prep Cooks in Burlington earn approximately $17.00 per hour and $35,360.00 annually, which is notably higher than the national average. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and demand for culinary support staff in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Prep Cooks include:
- South Burlington: $24.70 per hour
- Essex Junction: $24.62 per hour
Those willing to commute to these neighboring communities may find significantly higher pay opportunities compared to Burlington itself.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Burlington?
Several factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in Burlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks who demonstrate strong knife skills and efficient prep techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or larger hotels generally offers better compensation compared to fast food or casual dining locations.
- Culinary Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe or completion of culinary training can positively impact salary.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might offer premium pay depending on the employer.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Burlington
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Burlington involves several practical steps.
Many employers look for candidates with hands-on experience and relevant certifications. Participating in programs like the Community Kitchen Academy, which offers free culinary training, ServSafe Certification, and job placement support, can be highly beneficial.
Additionally, obtaining the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is often required and demonstrates strong food safety knowledge.
Gaining experience through internships or entry-level kitchen positions also helps prospective Prep Cooks develop essential skills and advance their careers.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Burlington
Some of the notable employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Burlington include:
- The Farmhouse Group
- The University of Vermont Medical Center
- Bluebird Barbecue
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Burlington Work At
Prep Cooks in Burlington are commonly employed at various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work with moderate pay, focusing on consistent food preparation.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often fast-paced, these locations can provide entry-level opportunities but sometimes offer lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger operations can provide higher salaries and chances for advancement.
- Specialty Food Establishments: Places focusing on artisanal or ethnic cuisines may offer opportunities to hone specific skills and better pay.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with upscale or larger venues generally paying more than smaller, casual locations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Prep Cooks
If you are interested in careers similar to Prep Cook, you may consider exploring several related roles within hospitality and culinary fields.
These include roles such as Cook, Fry Cook, and Commis Chef, which involve closely related culinary responsibilities and offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Burlington
Prep Cooks should be aware of labor laws and tax guidelines relevant to their work in Burlington, VT.
- Consult the Federal Department of Labor website for federal labor regulations including wages, overtime, and work conditions.
- For state-specific guidance, the Vermont Department of Labor website provides detailed information on labor standards and employment rights in Vermont.