ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Line Cook Prep Cook Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

CROSSED KEYS ESTATE

Prep Cook

Andover, NJ · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Stocks and maintains sufficient levels of food products at line stations to assure a smooth service ... Prior Line Cook/Prep Cook experience required * Experience in a restaurant or event venue a plus

Dave & Buster's

Line Cook / Prep Cook

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

The line cook position is responsible for creating an exceptional culinary experience for our ... Controls costs by following prep sheets as designed to ensure the freshest product is served and ...

Dave & Buster's, Inc.

Line Cook / Prep Cook

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

The line cook position is responsible for creating an exceptional culinary experience for our ... Controls costs by following prep sheets as designed to ensure the freshest product is served and ...

Smashburger

Kitchen Line Cook/Prep

Glassboro, NJ · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

We pay our this full-time Kitchen Line Cook / Prep position a competitive pay rate based on experience. Our team also enjoys great benefits, including an employee referral program, flexible schedules ...

Smashburger

Kitchen Line Cook/Prep

Maple Shade, NJ · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

We pay our this full-time Kitchen Line Cook / Prep position a competitive pay based on experience. Our team also enjoys great benefits, including an employee referral program, flexible schedules, and ...

Smashburger

Kitchen Line Cook/Prep

Maple Shade, NJ · On-site

$15/hr

We pay our this full-time Kitchen Line Cook / Prep position a competitive pay based on experience. Our team also enjoys great benefits , including an employee referral program, flexible schedules ...

Smashburger

Kitchen Line Cook/Prep

Glassboro, NJ · On-site

$15/hr

We pay our this full-time Kitchen Line Cook / Prep position a competitive pay rate based on experience . Our team also enjoys great benefits , including an employee referral program, flexible ...

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Edison, NJ · On-site

$15.92/hr

Prior experience is highly preferred in one or more of the following roles : line cook, prep cook, grill cook, fry cook, chef, or back-of-house (BOH) team member. Experience with restaurant brands or ...

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza

Prep Cook

Edison, NJ

$15.92/hr

Prior experience is highly preferred in one or more of the following roles : line cook, prep cook, grill cook, fry cook, chef, or back-of-house (BOH) team member. Experience with restaurant brands or ...

Crossed Keys Estate

Prep Cook

Andover, NJ · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Stocks and maintains sufficient levels of food products at line stations to assure a smooth service ... Prior Line Cook/Prep Cook experience required * Experience in a restaurant or event venue a plus

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLine Cook Prep Cook JobsLine Cook Prep Cook Jobs in New Jersey

Line Cook Prep Cook information

See New Jersey salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do line cook prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cook prep cook in New Jersey is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a line cook prep cook?

Line Cook Prep Cooks are kitchen professionals responsible for preparing ingredients and cooking food according to restaurant recipes and standards. They handle tasks such as chopping vegetables, preparing sauces, portioning ingredients, and cooking dishes on the line during service hours. Their role is essential for maintaining kitchen efficiency and ensuring that meals are prepared quickly and accurately. Line Cook Prep Cooks often work under the supervision of a head chef or kitchen manager and must follow food safety guidelines at all times.

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

To thrive as a Line Cook Prep Cook, you need strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, basic culinary skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with formal culinary training being a plus. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen practices, and smooth kitchen operations during busy service hours.

What are some typical challenges line cook prep cooks face during busy shifts, and how can they manage them effectively?

Line Cook Prep Cooks often encounter challenges during peak hours, such as managing multiple orders simultaneously, maintaining speed without sacrificing food quality, and keeping their workstations organized. Effective time management and clear communication with kitchen teammates are key for handling these high-pressure moments. Staying organized and prepping ingredients ahead of busy periods can greatly reduce stress and ensure smooth service. Many kitchens foster a collaborative environment, so seeking help and supporting others on the line can make busy shifts more manageable.

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

AspectLine CookPrep Cook
Primary ResponsibilitiesCooking menu items on the line during servicePreparing ingredients and components before cooking
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen during service hoursPrepping in the kitchen, often before service begins
Required SkillsCooking techniques, timing, multitaskingKnife skills, ingredient prep, organization
CertificationsFood safety certifications often preferredFood safety certifications often required

In summary, a Line Cook focuses on preparing and cooking dishes during service, while a Prep Cook handles ingredient preparation beforehand. Both roles are essential in a kitchen, with overlapping skills and certifications, but differ mainly in their daily tasks and timing within the kitchen workflow.

Can I become a line cook with no experience?

Yes, many restaurants hire entry-level line cooks with little or no experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important for starting in this role.

Do line cooks make more than prep cooks?

Line cooks generally earn higher wages than prep cooks because they have more responsibilities, such as cooking and plating dishes during service. Prep cooks typically focus on preparing ingredients and may have lower pay rates. Wage differences can vary based on experience, location, and establishment type.

What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Line Cook Prep Cook jobs?

Cities in New Jersey with the most Line Cook Prep Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Line Cook Prep Cook job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,752 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Line Cook / Prep Cook

The Charlesworth Hotel & Restaurant

Fortescue, NJ • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Looking for a dependable and experienced line / prep cook for a busy kitchen at the Charlesworth Restaurant & Hotel. We need someone with the ability to follow recipes, is experienced in rotation of food, guidelines, prep, food safety, and sanitation standards.

Company Description

Fresh upscale menu prepared from scratch to the highest standards.