Prep Cook Salary in Syracuse, NY
Prep Cooks in Syracuse, NY, in 2026, 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 Syracuse is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for culinary support roles in the region.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Syracuse, NY?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Syracuse can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different levels of expertise.
| 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 Syracuse Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work is mainly behind the scenes, assisting with ingredient preparation and kitchen organization. Their earnings typically come from their wages or salary.
Prep Cook Salary in Syracuse vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $18.22 per hour, translating to about $37,897.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Syracuse earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $17.00 and an annual income of $35,360.00.
This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living variations and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Syracuse for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Syracuse: $18.50 per hour
- East Syracuse: $19.00 per hour
Prep Cooks working in East Syracuse earn the highest hourly pay among the surrounding areas, which might attract candidates willing to commute for better compensation.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Syracuse?
Salary levels for Prep Cooks in Syracuse are influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with advanced knife skills, knowledge of food safety, and efficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining spots.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or Certified Culinarian status can positively impact salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials boosting earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and competition among employers in Syracuse can affect wages.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Syracuse
Becoming a Prep Cook involves a combination of education, certification, and practical experience:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Onondaga Community College Culinary Arts Program are ideal for gaining hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
- Explore Related Academic Paths: Although not currently enrolling new students, the Syracuse University Food Studies Program offers a broader understanding of food systems that can complement culinary skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are crucial to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Obtain Culinary Certifications: Achieving entry-level certifications like the Certified Culinarian (CC) by the American Culinary Federation can demonstrate professionalism and enhance career prospects.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Working in kitchens as assistants or line cooks can provide valuable experience and improve skillsets.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Syracuse
Several well-known establishments in Syracuse regularly seek qualified Prep Cooks, including:
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
- Tully's Good Times Restaurants
- Delaware North
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Syracuse Work At
Prep Cooks have opportunities in various types of establishments offering unique salary prospects:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work with moderate wages suitable for entry-level cooks.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Generally maintain a faster pace, sometimes offering slightly higher pay for efficiency and speed.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments may offer higher wages and benefits due to more demanding food preparation standards.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually pay higher salaries reflecting the elevated culinary skills required, though competition for these roles can be stronger.
The type of establishment significantly impacts Prep Cook salaries, with more upscale venues typically compensating better for skilled staff.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Syracuse for Prep Cooks
If you're exploring similar roles in the culinary field, here are a few related positions that might interest you:
This includes Line Cook, Commis Chef, and Cook positions, which involve similar kitchen responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Syracuse
Prep Cooks in Syracuse should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and taxation that apply to their employment.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The New York State Department of Labor website provides resources and information on state-specific labor laws.
- The City of Syracuse official website offers local regulations and workforce resources for employees.