Prep Cook in Collingswood, NJ
Prep Cooks in Collingswood, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.83 per hour, which translates to about $713.20 per week, $3,090.53 per month, and $37,086.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Collingswood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Collingswood, NJ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Collingswood can vary depending on experience and the employer. Below is an overview of typical pay scales across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,629.33 | $31,555.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.83 | $713.20 | $3,090.53 | $37,086.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.96 | $838.40 | $3,620.27 | $43,577.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Collingswood Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as they work behind the scenes in the kitchen preparing ingredients and support tasks, with limited to no direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Collingswood vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn around $16.83 per hour, which translates to approximately $35,006.40 per year.
Prep Cooks in Collingswood earn slightly above the national average, with an hourly wage of $17.83 and an annual salary of $37,086.40. This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Collingswood for Prep Cooks
Looking at nearby areas, the hourly pay for Prep Cooks varies slightly:
- Downtown Collingswood: $18.38 per hour
- West Collingswood: $17.32 per hour
Prep Cooks working in Downtown Collingswood tend to earn a bit more compared to other surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Collingswood?
Several key factors influence how much a Prep Cook can earn in Collingswood:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined knife skills and knowledge of food safety tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks employed in upscale restaurants or catering services often earn more than those in casual or fast-food settings.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications like ServSafe can enhance salary potential and employability.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Shift preferences such as evenings or weekends may affect pay with potential shift differentials.
- Location within Collingswood: Working in higher-demand or more affluent neighborhoods might bring slight pay increases.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Collingswood
To start a career as a Prep Cook in Collingswood, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs like the Camden County College Culinary Arts Program or the Burlington County Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program provide solid foundational skills for aspiring Prep Cooks.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for meeting health and safety standards in kitchens.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships help build experience and open doors to higher-paying roles.
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: Certifications from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) can improve job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Collingswood
Several reputable employers in Collingswood actively seek Prep Cooks, including:
- Cafe Antonio's II
- Kitchen Consigliere
- Haddon Culinary
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Collingswood Work At
Prep Cooks in Collingswood commonly find work in a variety of establishments including casual dining restaurants, fast-casual chains, catering companies, and specialty kitchens.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary levels. For instance, fast casual spots may offer steadier but lower pay compared to upscale restaurants or catering services that often pay more for specialized skills and longer hours.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Collingswood for Prep Cooks
If you're considering other roles related to Prep Cook, here are a few similar careers worth exploring:
These include Fry Cook, Line Cook, and Pastry Cook positions which involve similar foundational culinary skills and techniques.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Collingswood
Prep Cooks in Collingswood should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor regulations to ensure proper workplace rights and tax compliance.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for nationwide regulations.
- For state-specific laws and resources, check the New Jersey state website for labor laws and employment resources.