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Cooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Hudson, MA (NOW HIRING)

Prep Cooks

Burlington, MA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

As a Prep Cook, you will play a crucial role in supporting the kitchen team by preparing ingredients and ensuring that all food items are ready for cooking and service. Your work will directly impact ...

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Cooks Prep Cooks information

See Hudson, MA salary details

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How much do cooks prep cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks prep cooks in Hudson, MA is $16.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cook?

Cooks and prep cooks are culinary professionals who work in kitchens to prepare and cook food. Prep cooks focus on preparing ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring, ensuring everything is ready for the main cooking process. Cooks, on the other hand, handle the actual cooking of dishes, following recipes and presentation standards. Both roles require attention to detail, good time management, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Together, they help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook?

To thrive as a Cook or Prep Cook, you need solid food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, basic knife handling techniques, and adherence to food safety certifications like ServSafe are important. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth workflow in fast-paced culinary environments.

What are some common challenges faced by prep cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Prep cooks often work in fast-paced settings where managing time efficiently and maintaining attention to detail can be challenging. They must juggle multiple tasks, such as chopping ingredients, preparing sauces, and organizing supplies, all while adhering to strict food safety standards. Communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent delays during service. Adapting to changing menus or last-minute requests is also a frequent part of the role, requiring flexibility and quick thinking.

What is the difference between Cooks Prep Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectPrep CooksLine Cooks
ResponsibilitiesPrepare ingredients, wash, chop, and set up stationsCook dishes during service, follow recipes, and manage station
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often preferredSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep areas, early shifts, less pressureFront-line cooking stations, during service hours, high-pressure environment
Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, catering, and hospitalityEssential in restaurant kitchens, culinary establishments

Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, while Line Cooks handle cooking dishes during service. Both roles require similar credentials and work in busy kitchen environments, but their responsibilities differ based on the stage of food preparation.

Do prep cooks make good money?

Prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and establishment, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced prep cooks or those working in high-end restaurants may earn higher wages, and some may receive tips or benefits. Overall, the pay is generally considered modest compared to more advanced culinary roles.

How much do prep cooks make a year?

Prep cooks typically earn an annual salary ranging from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Many prep cooks are paid hourly, with wages often between $10 and $15 per hour, and may receive benefits or overtime pay based on the employer's policies.

What qualifications do I need to be a prep cook?

Prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions are often required. Some employers may also value food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

What are popular job titles related to Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Hudson, MA?

For Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Hudson, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Hudson, MA are hiring for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs?

Cities near Hudson, MA with the most Cooks Prep Cooks job openings:

Infographic showing various Cooks Prep Cooks job openings in Hudson, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 55% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 69% Physical, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,332 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Prep Cooks

Redstone American Grill

Burlington, MA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

About the Role:

As a Prep Cook, you will play a crucial role in supporting the kitchen team by preparing ingredients and ensuring that all food items are ready for cooking and service. Your work will directly impact the efficiency and quality of the kitchen operations, contributing to a seamless dining experience for guests. You will be responsible for following recipes and safety standards to maintain consistency and hygiene in food preparation. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and collaboration with chefs and other kitchen staff. Ultimately, your efforts will help maintain high standards of food quality and kitchen organization.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
  • Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision.
  • Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation role.
  • Certification in food handling or safety (e.g., ServSafe).
  • Familiarity with kitchen equipment and tools.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and measure ingredients according to recipes and instructions.
  • Wash, peel, chop, and cut vegetables, fruits, and other food items.
  • Assist chefs and cooks by organizing and stocking kitchen supplies.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of workstations and kitchen equipment.
  • Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Assist in receiving and storing deliveries properly.
  • Support the kitchen team during busy service periods by performing assigned tasks efficiently.

Skills:

The required skills such as basic food safety knowledge and the ability to follow instructions are essential for preparing ingredients correctly and maintaining hygiene standards. Physical stamina and manual dexterity are used daily to handle kitchen tasks efficiently and safely. Preferred skills like prior kitchen experience and food handling certification enhance the ability to anticipate kitchen needs and contribute to a smoother workflow. Organizational skills help in managing prep tasks and keeping the kitchen orderly, which supports timely service. Teamwork and communication skills are vital for coordinating with chefs and other staff to ensure all prep work aligns with the kitchen’s demands.