Prep Cook Salary in Upper Darby, PA
Prep Cooks in Upper Darby, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.50 per hour, translating to around $580.00 per week, $2,513.33 per month, and $30,160.00 per year.
The job demand for Prep Cooks in Upper Darby is experiencing a positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating healthy opportunities and consistent demand in the food preparation sector.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Upper Darby, PA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Upper Darby varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,513.33 | $30,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Upper Darby Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips. Their earnings typically come from their hourly wages or salary since they work primarily behind the scenes preparing ingredients rather than direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Upper Darby vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 per year.
The salaries for Prep Cooks in Upper Darby align closely with the national average, indicating competitive pay within the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper Darby for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer the following hourly pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Drexel Hill: $15.50 per hour
- Highland Park: $17.60 per hour
Prep Cooks seeking higher pay might consider nearby locales like Highland Park, which offer wages above the Upper Darby average.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Upper Darby?
Several factors impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Upper Darby:
- Experience and Skills: More skilled Prep Cooks with better knife skills and efficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks in fine dining or upscale restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with premium pay.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can enhance employability and salary potential.
- Location: Salaries vary with local cost of living and demand.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Upper Darby
Starting as a Prep Cook involves several important steps to build a solid foundation:
- Training Programs: Enroll in culinary programs such as the Delaware County Community College Culinary Arts Program or attend the JNA Institute of Culinary Arts for focused culinary training.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtain certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles helps develop hands-on skills necessary for advancement.
- Advanced Credentials: Pursuing American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification can validate your culinary knowledge and open doors for higher pay.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Upper Darby
Some notable employers actively recruiting Prep Cooks in Upper Darby include:
- Pica's Restaurant
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Upper Darby Work At
Prep Cooks in Upper Darby commonly work in various types of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady shifts but may pay moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Provide fast-paced environments with competitive hourly rates.
- Fine Dining Venues: Typically pay higher salaries and may require more advanced skills.
- Catering and Event Kitchens: Offer seasonal or event-based work, sometimes with premium pay for busy periods.
The type of establishment often significantly influences salary, with higher-end venues generally providing better compensation to Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper Darby for Prep Cooks
There are several roles related to Prep Cook that you might consider for career growth or lateral moves:
These include Line Cook, Chef de Partie, and Pastry Cook—roles that require varied culinary skills and offer different pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Upper Darby
Prep Cooks should be mindful of relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for information about state labor regulations including minimum wage and overtime.
- Understand federal tax obligations by accessing resources at the Internal Revenue Service.
- For federal labor laws and workforce statistics, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor.