Prep Cook Salary in Quincy, MA
Prep Cooks in Quincy, 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 demand for Prep Cooks in Quincy is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing promising opportunities and an expanding need for skilled kitchen assistance in the city's culinary sector.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Quincy, MA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Quincy varies with experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience 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 Quincy, MA Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their role typically involves back-of-house kitchen preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily through hourly wages or salaries.
Prep Cook Salary in Quincy, MA vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, equating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Prep Cooks in Quincy enjoy a higher average wage of $17.00 per hour and an annual salary of about $35,360. This premium reflects local economic conditions and demand for culinary support staff in Quincy.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Quincy, MA for Prep Cooks
Nearby neighborhoods offer varying pay rates for Prep Cooks, including:
- North Quincy: $18.00 per hour
- Quincy Center: $17.50 per hour
The area around North Quincy tends to offer slightly higher wages, possibly due to different hospitality venues or cost of living factors.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Quincy, MA?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Quincy:
- Experience and Skills: Experienced Prep Cooks who master various culinary techniques or kitchen equipment can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or specialty catering businesses often pay more than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials boosting overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Acquiring relevant food safety certifications or culinary training can enhance job prospects and pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Quincy’s proximity to Boston and local economic conditions affect wage scales.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Quincy, MA
Interested individuals can take these steps to start a career as a Prep Cook in Quincy:
- Education and Training: Pursue foundational culinary skills through programs like the Culinary Arts Certificate at Quincy College or consider more advanced studies such as the Professional Chef Program at Boston University.
- Certifications: Obtain essential certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Allergen Awareness Training, which are mandatory for food service workers in Massachusetts.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek entry-level kitchen roles or internships to build hands-on skills.
- Networking and Job Searching: Engage with local culinary communities and apply to various eateries looking for prep staff.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Quincy, MA
Quincy hosts several popular culinary establishments frequently hiring Prep Cooks:
- Legal Sea Foods
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Bertucci's
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Quincy, MA Work At
Prep Cooks in Quincy typically find employment in a range of hospitality settings, including:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These establishments generally provide steady hours but might offer moderate wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: These typically pay more and may require advanced skills or longer hours.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: Offering opportunities for more consistent schedules and possibly higher hourly rates.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary levels and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Quincy, MA for Prep Cooks
If you're interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, consider exploring related careers that align closely with the Prep Cook position.
These roles include Line Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter, each offering diverse responsibilities and salary scales within kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Quincy, MA
Understanding the legal framework around labor laws and taxation is essential for Prep Cooks in Quincy:
- Details on Massachusetts state labor laws, including minimum wage and overtime regulations, can be accessed at the official Massachusetts government website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's site provides comprehensive information on federal labor standards and employee rights.