Prep Cook Salary in Cherry Hill, NJ
Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $16.98 per hour, which translates to about $679.20 per week, $2,943.20 per month, and $35,318.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects in the food preparation industry in this area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Cherry Hill, NJ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Cherry Hill varies by experience and workplace, but here’s an overview of typical pay rates across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,619.47 | $31,433.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.83 | $713.20 | $3,081.87 | $37,058.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.96 | $838.40 | $3,615.47 | $43,596.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips, as their role primarily involves food preparation in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their compensation relies on their hourly wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Cherry Hill vs. National Average
Across the United States, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this national average, Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill earn significantly more, with hourly wages around $16.98 and a yearly salary near $35,318.40. This difference reflects local factors like cost of living and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cherry Hill for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Prep Cooks:
- Beach Haven: $19.65 per hour
- Newark: $18.23 per hour
Beach Haven provides the highest hourly wage in the vicinity, making it an attractive option for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Cherry Hill?
Several factors shape the salary range for Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to earn higher wages due to their efficiency and kitchen skills.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of food safety, knife skills, and ability to prep various cuisines can increase pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels can provide better salaries than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening, night, or holiday shifts might offer additional compensation.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Salaries in Cherry Hill reflect its economic conditions and demand for food preparation personnel.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Cherry Hill
Ready to become a Prep Cook in Cherry Hill? Here are some steps to consider:
- Obtain Basic Culinary Education: Local programs like those at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College or Gloucester County Institute of Technology offer valuable culinary training tailored for aspiring food professionals.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure compliance with health standards.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Start with kitchen assistant roles or internships to develop essential prep skills.
- Pursue Culinary Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation demonstrate professional competence.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill
Several well-known restaurant chains actively seek Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill:
- Olive Garden
- Seasons 52
- Silver Diner
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill Work At
Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill typically find employment in a variety of food service settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer consistent hours and may provide moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often high-volume kitchens with faster pace and sometimes lower pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: These usually pay more due to the level of service and professionalism required.
- Catering Companies: Prep Cooks here may experience variable hours but sometimes earn higher pay for event-based work.
The type of establishment can greatly influence earnings, with more formal or upscale venues generally offering better salary prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cherry Hill for Prep Cooks
If you’re interested in other hospitality roles similar to Prep Cook, consider:
These include Commis Chef, Fry Cook, and Cook roles, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Cherry Hill
Prep Cooks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal employment regulations.
- Check the New Jersey official site for state-specific labor laws, wage guidelines, and workforce resources.