Prep Cook Salary in Yonkers, NY
Prep Cooks in Yonkers, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $19.63 per hour, which translates to about $785.20 per week, $3,402.53 per month, and $40,830.40 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Yonkers is looking up with a positive growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing employment opportunities in the culinary sector within the city.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Yonkers, NY?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Yonkers can vary based on experience, skills, and employer type. Here’s a breakdown of earnings by experience level for Prep Cooks.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Prep Cooks in Yonkers Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks in Yonkers generally do not earn tips, as their work primarily involves food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income relies mostly on a fixed salary or hourly wage without tip supplements.
Prep Cook Salary in Yonkers vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Prep Cooks in Yonkers earn significantly more, with an average of $19.63 per hour and $40,830.40 annually. This higher salary likely reflects the greater cost of living in the Yonkers area as well as competitive demand for culinary workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Yonkers for Prep Cooks
Looking closer to home, the following nearby neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown Yonkers: $20.00 per hour
- Waterfront District: $21.00 per hour
These areas tend to provide better compensation reflecting either upscale dining establishments or high demand for culinary staff.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Yonkers?
Several important factors determine a Prep Cook’s salary in Yonkers:
- Experience and Skill Level: Prep Cooks with more experience or specialized skills such as knife handling and food safety awareness tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering services often pay better than fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as ServSafe or culinary arts credentials can improve salary prospects and job opportunities.
- Location Within Yonkers: Some neighborhoods or districts pay higher due to higher operating costs or clientele expectations.
- Work Hours and Shift Patterns: Night shifts or weekend work may come with premium pay.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Yonkers
Embarking on a career as a Prep Cook in Yonkers typically involves a combination of education, practical experience, and certifications. Here’s how to get started:
- Enroll in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Program at Yonkers Public Schools, which offers hands-on training in food service operations and opportunities to earn qualifications such as ServSafe and ProStart certifications.
- Consider continuing education at SUNY Westchester Community College’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management program, which prepares students for culinary and hospitality careers with practical learning in advanced kitchens.
- Obtain the ServSafe Certification, a widely respected food safety training program administered by the National Restaurant Association.
- Earn the ProStart Certification, which is an industry-supported program designed for students pursuing culinary or restaurant management careers.
- Gain entry-level work experience, possibly in fast food, casual dining, or catering environments to develop foundational culinary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Yonkers
The following prominent employers in and near Yonkers frequently hire Prep Cooks:
- Olive Garden
- Yard House
- Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
- Outback Steakhouse
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Yonkers Work At
Prep Cooks find employment in a variety of establishments in Yonkers, each affecting their salary potential differently:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but often pay on the lower end of the scale.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Fast-paced environments with moderate pay and potential for quicker advancement.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Tend to offer higher wages due to quality and complexity of food preparation.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Often offer variable pay depending on event size and frequency.
The type and reputation of the establishment thus play key roles in income levels for Prep Cooks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Yonkers for Prep Cooks
If you’re considering careers related to Prep Cooking, here are a few similar roles worth exploring.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Pastry Cook, all of which are related culinary positions with overlapping skills and differing responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Yonkers
Prep Cooks in Yonkers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for information on federal labor standards, minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- Check the New York State Department of Labor website for specific state labor laws and employment regulations.