Prep Cook Salary in New Bedford, MA
Prep Cooks in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.14 per hour, which translates to about $765.60 per week, $3,317.60 per month, and $39,811.20 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in New Bedford is growing positively at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy and increasing need for this essential role in the culinary and food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in New Bedford varies by experience, with a general progression from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.66 | $626.40 | $2,709.07 | $32,716.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.14 | $765.60 | $3,317.60 | $39,811.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.41 | $936.40 | $4,044.53 | $48,692.80 |
Do Prep Cooks in New Bedford Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work is primarily behind the scenes in food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their incomes mostly come from hourly wages or salaries.
Prep Cook Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn approximately $16.78 per hour and about $34,902.40 annually.
Compared to these figures, Prep Cooks in New Bedford make higher wages, earning around $19.14 per hour and $39,811.20 yearly, reflecting local demand and cost of living considerations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Prep Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly varied pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- North End: $21.00 per hour
Both areas provide higher pay than the average New Bedford wage, with North End being the highest-paying.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in New Bedford?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations among Prep Cooks in New Bedford:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Prep Cooks with skills in specialized food preparation techniques tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or catering companies often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might come with additional pay premiums.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or allergen awareness can increase employability and salary.
- Local Economy: The economic environment and cost of living in New Bedford influence wage levels to maintain employee standards of living.
How To Become a Prep Cook in New Bedford
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in New Bedford involves several key steps:
- Gain Formal Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Bristol Community College Culinary Arts Program or the New Bedford High School Culinary Arts Program, both of which provide foundational skills for this role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for safe food handling, along with Massachusetts’ Allergen Awareness Training as required by state regulations.
- Build Practical Experience: Starting in kitchen assistant roles or internships helps develop skills and qualifies you for Prep Cook positions.
- Develop Strong Knife and Food Preparation Skills: Core skills essential for efficient kitchen operations.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in New Bedford
Several respected establishments currently hire Prep Cooks in New Bedford:
- Waterfront Grille
- The Black Whale
- Freestone's City Grill
Establishments That Prep Cooks in New Bedford Work At
Prep Cooks typically find work in a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady work; pay can be variable based on the restaurant's size and prestige.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Places: Often offer fast-paced roles with moderate wages but potential for overtime.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These can provide higher wages and opportunities for growth due to larger scale operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually offer better pay in exchange for advanced skills and attention to detail.
The type of establishment directly affects salary potential and career progression opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Prep Cooks
For those interested in similar roles within hospitality, several related careers might be considered.
This includes positions such as Line Cook, Prep Cook itself (for lateral or advancement moves), and Kitchen Porter, all closely related roles within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in New Bedford
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Prep Cooks:
- The Massachusetts state government's official website provides comprehensive resources on local labor laws and worker rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers federal regulations and workplace standards applicable to all workers.