Prep Cook Salary in Cambridge, MA
Prep Cooks in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.87 per hour, which translates to about $794.80 per week, $3,444.13 per month, and $41,329.60 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and opportunities in the local culinary and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cambridge varies according to experience level and employer type. Here's a breakdown across different experience tiers to help you understand what to expect.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.87 | $794.80 | $3,444.13 | $41,329.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.41 | $936.40 | $4,055.47 | $48,732.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes and not directly service-oriented. Their income usually consists of paycheck wages alone, without supplemental tip earnings.
Prep Cook Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $17 per hour, translating to roughly $35,360 annually.
When compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Cambridge earn noticeably more, approximately $19.87 per hour and about $41,329.60 per year, which reflects the higher cost of living and demand in the Cambridge area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Prep Cooks
Within the Cambridge region, certain neighborhoods offer better compensation for Prep Cooks:
- Harvard Square: $21.50 per hour
- Kendall Square: $22.00 per hour
Exploring job opportunities in these areas could lead to higher earnings due to their bustling culinary scenes and premium hospitality services.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors shape the earnings of a Prep Cook in Cambridge:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks who have honed their culinary prep skills typically earn higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Skills such as knife handling, food safety, and knowledge of various cuisines can enhance salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often pay more than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Certifications: Certifications in food safety and handling can boost employability and wage prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Prep Cooks working night shifts or weekends may receive differential pay rates.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cambridge
Becoming a Prep Cook in Cambridge involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience.
- Professional Training: Enroll in culinary courses such as those offered at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts or the Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program for foundational knowledge.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and complete the Allergen Awareness Training, both of which are often mandatory in Massachusetts.
- Gain Experience: Seek entry-level positions in kitchens or food preparation roles to develop practical skills.
- Networking: Connect with local culinary professionals and attend industry events to discover job opportunities and mentorship.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cambridge
Several well-known employers in Cambridge actively seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- Legal Sea Foods
- Flour Bakery
- The Charles Hotel
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cambridge Work At
Prep Cooks in Cambridge find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer steady work and may have moderate wage levels.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages due to the skilled nature and demand of food preparation.
- Bakeries and Catering Services: Opportunities here allow for specialized prep experience, sometimes with different pay scales.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide more structured employment with potential benefits and greater earning potential.
The type of establishment plays a key role in salary, with high-end venues generally offering more competitive pay than casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Prep Cooks
If you are exploring careers similar to Prep Cook, here are some related positions that may interest you:
These include Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Pastry Cook, which share many responsibilities and skillsets with the Prep Cook position but can offer different career progression paths and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cambridge
Prep Cooks should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements applicable in Massachusetts and at the federal level.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for details on minimum wage laws, overtime rules, and workplace rights specific to the state.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.