Prep Cook Salary in Lynn, MA
Prep Cooks in Lynn, MA, 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 job demand for Prep Cooks in Lynn is growing positively at a rate of approximately 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding opportunity for those entering this role in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Lynn, MA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Lynn varies based on experience and employer, but the following gives a general overview of earnings at different levels.
| 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 Lynn Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is typically behind the scenes preparing ingredients and assisting cooks rather than direct customer interaction. Their income mostly depends on their hourly wage.
Prep Cook Salary in Lynn vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Lynn earn considerably more, with an hourly wage of $17.00 and an annual salary of about $35,360.00.
This higher pay reflects Lynn's local cost of living and demand for skilled kitchen support staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lynn for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Prep Cooks:
- Route 1 North: $21.00 per hour
- Lynn Waterfront: $20.00 per hour
Those commuting to Route 1 North can expect the highest hourly pay among the nearby regions.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Lynn?
Several factors affect how much a Prep Cook can earn in Lynn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with additional culinary skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or allergen awareness training can increase job prospects and pay.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or extended hours may come with additional pay or overtime.
- Local Labor Market: Competition and demand for Prep Cooks in Lynn affect wage levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Lynn
Becoming a Prep Cook in Lynn involves several steps to build the right skills and qualifications:
- Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts program at Lynn Technical Vocational Institute provide foundational training. Students spend the first year exploring various technical fields and specialize in culinary arts in the subsequent years.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and completing Allergen Awareness Training are often required to ensure safe food handling.
- On-the-Job Training: Many prep cooks gain experience starting at entry-level kitchen roles and learning practical skills.
- Networking and Job Search: Building connections within local restaurants and culinary communities helps in finding employment opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Lynn
Several well-known employers in Lynn are actively seeking Prep Cooks:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Lynn Work At
Prep Cooks in Lynn typically work across various establishments, including:
- Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurants: These often provide steady work hours but may offer lower wages than other settings.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Provide opportunities for skill development and slightly better pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments sometimes pay higher wages due to larger kitchen operations and demand for quality service.
The type of establishment influences the hourly wage, work pace, and potential for skill advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lynn for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in similar roles, consider exploring related hospitality jobs that share culinary responsibilities or involve kitchen support.
These include Line Cook, Cook, and Pastry Cook positions, which involve hands-on food preparation and can serve as career progression paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Lynn
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Prep Cooks working in Lynn.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for comprehensive info on state labor laws, wage requirements, and worker rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers valuable details about federal regulations, minimum wage, overtime rules, and workplace protections.