Prep Cook Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Prep Cooks in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.21 per hour, which translates to about $728.40 per week, $3,156.40 per month, and $37,876.80 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Fort Lee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for individuals pursuing this role in the area.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Fort Lee can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.57 | $662.80 | $2,868.53 | $34,362.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.21 | $728.40 | $3,156.40 | $37,876.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.01 | $800.40 | $3,467.80 | $41,620.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from wages rather than gratuities.
Prep Cook Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $16.85 per hour, which equates to about $35,048 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Fort Lee earn a higher wage at approximately $18.21 per hour and $37,876.80 annually, reflecting the local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Prep Cooks
When looking at nearby areas, Prep Cook salaries vary slightly:
- Kura Sushi Ft. Lee: $23.75 per hour
- IPIC Theaters: $27.00 per hour
These neighboring establishments offer notably higher wages, providing attractive options for Prep Cooks seeking better compensation near Fort Lee.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Fort Lee?
Several factors can influence how much a Prep Cook earns in Fort Lee:
- Experience Level: More experienced Prep Cooks often command higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Knowledge of various cuisines and food safety can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants may offer better salaries than casual or fast food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or holiday shifts sometimes come with premium pay.
- Certifications: Possessing food safety certifications can improve job prospects and salary offers.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Fort Lee
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Fort Lee involves several key steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs like the Bergen County Technical High School Culinology Program or the Institute of Culinary Education offer valuable culinary training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for food service roles.
- Earn Industry Credentials: The Certified Culinarian (CC) credential through the American Culinary Federation validates critical culinary skills.
- Build Experience: Start in entry-level roles to develop hands-on skills and gain workplace familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Fort Lee
Leading employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Fort Lee include:
- Kura Sushi Ft. Lee
- IPIC Theaters
- Applebee's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Fort Lee Work At
Prep Cooks commonly work at a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining: These places usually have steady hours and competitive wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often require fast-paced work, which can influence wages slightly lower than other categories.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries due to skill requirements and customer expectations.
- Catering and Event Venues: Provide diverse work experiences that can boost skills and salary potential.
The type of establishment significantly affects compensation, with fine dining venues generally offering the most competitive pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Prep Cooks
If you're exploring roles related to Prep Cook, here are a few similar careers worth considering:
These careers include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Cook, providing alternative pathways within culinary and food preparation fields.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Fort Lee
Prep Cooks in Fort Lee should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and taxation rules to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific New Jersey state labor laws are available on the New Jersey Department of Labor website.