Prep Cook Salary in Worcester, MA
Prep Cooks in Worcester, MA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.93 per hour, which translates to about $717.20 per week, $3,107.87 per month, and $37,294.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Worcester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and an expanding market in food preparation roles.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Worcester, MA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Worcester varies based on experience and employer, but this table breaks down the typical earnings by level 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 Worcester Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips since their work happens primarily behind the scenes in the kitchen and does not usually involve direct customer interaction.
Prep Cook Salary in Worcester vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Prep Cooks in Worcester earn a higher wage, with an average of $17.93 per hour and $37,294.40 per year, attributed to local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Worcester for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Prep Cooks:
- Davis Farmland: $22.00 per hour
- Armsby Abbey: $21.50 per hour
These locations offer competitive wages above the Worcester average, making them desirable options for earnings.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Worcester?
Several key factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Worcester:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with refined food prep skills typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Prep Cooks working in upscale restaurants or specialty dining locations tend to earn more than those in fast casual or cafeteria settings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications, such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification, can positively influence salary.
- Work Hours: Shift timings and overtime availability can increase overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: Worcester’s regional demand for culinary staff affects salary competitiveness.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Worcester
Starting a career as a Prep Cook in Worcester involves several essential steps and training opportunities.
First, gaining formal culinary education can set candidates apart. Local programs such as Worcester Technical High School Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training for aspiring Prep Cooks.
Additionally, Quinsigamond Community College Culinary Arts Program provides associate degrees and certificates to build culinary foundational skills.
Food safety knowledge is critical for Prep Cooks. Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with Massachusetts food safety regulations.
Moreover, completion of Allergen Awareness Training is mandatory for food handlers to manage allergen risks effectively in a kitchen environment.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Worcester
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Prep Cooks in Worcester include:
- Davis Farmland
- Armsby Abbey
- Val's Restaurant
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Worcester Work At
Prep Cooks in Worcester are employed in a variety of food establishments, including casual dining, fast casual restaurants, catering services, and hotels.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary a Prep Cook can earn. Typically, higher-end restaurants and hotels pay better wages than fast food or casual dining venues.
Catering companies may offer seasonal or event-based work that can affect income consistency.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Worcester for Prep Cooks
If you're considering similar roles in hospitality, here are a few that align closely with the Prep Cook position:
These include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter positions, which share similar responsibilities and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Worcester
Prep Cooks should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations in Massachusetts to ensure fair employment standards and compliance.
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for comprehensive state-specific labor laws and regulations.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers valuable resources.