SOC 352021
Food Preparation Workers
Perform a variety of food preparation duties other than cooking, such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat, and brewing coffee or tea.
National Median
$34,220
per year
National Salary Overview
Median Annual
$34,220
Entry Level (10th pct)
$23,490
Experienced (90th pct)
$44,260
Total Employed
888,770
Salary Distribution
Salary percentiles show the range from entry-level (10th) to top earners (90th)
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level0-2 years experience | $23,490 - $28,740 |
| Mid Career2-8 years experience | $28,740 - $37,540 |
| Senior / Expert8+ years experience | $37,540 - $44,260 |
Highest Paying Locations for Food Preparation Workers
Food Preparation Workers Salary by Location
Compare salaries across 50 metropolitan areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Food Preparation Workers?
The national median annual salary for Food Preparation Workers is $34,220, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This means half of workers in this occupation earn more, and half earn less.
Where do Food Preparation Workerss earn the most?
The highest-paying metro area for Food Preparation Workerss is San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA, with a median salary of $44,120.
How much can an experienced Food Preparation Workers make?
Top-earning Food Preparation Workerss (90th percentile) make $44,260 or more annually. This typically reflects workers with significant experience, specialized skills, or positions in high-paying regions.