Dishwasher jobs are among the most essential and steady positions in the food service industry. While often considered entry-level, this role provides valuable work experience and an opportunity to grow into higher positions such as prep cook, line cook, or kitchen supervisor. 

What does a dishwasher do?

Dishwashers are responsible for keeping a restaurant or food service kitchen clean, organized, and running smoothly. According to Indeed Career Guide, the job involves more than just washing dishes — it requires teamwork, efficiency, and attention to hygiene standards.

– Cleaning duties: Washing dishes, utensils, and cookware using commercial dishwashers or manual methods.

– Sanitizing: Ensuring all kitchen items meet health and safety regulations.

– Organizing: Returning clean items to proper storage areas for quick access by cooks and servers.

– Maintenance: Checking dishwashing equipment for issues and reporting repairs.

– Support tasks: Assisting chefs with prep work and cleaning kitchen areas as needed.

Where dishwashers work

Dishwashers are employed in a variety of establishments that serve food. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that dishwasher jobs are widely available in both small local eateries and large-scale food service operations.

– Restaurants and cafes: Most common employers, offering part-time or full-time positions.

– Hotels and resorts: Kitchens that operate 24/7 often require multiple dishwashers per shift.

– Catering companies: Dishwashers clean and organize large volumes of equipment for events.

– Hospitals and schools: Institutional kitchens with steady work schedules.

– Cruise lines: Onboard positions offering travel perks and accommodation.

Skills and qualities needed for success

While no formal education is required, certain skills make dishwashers more efficient and valuable in their workplaces. The ZipRecruiter Career Resource highlights the importance of speed, organization, and teamwork for success in this role.

– Physical stamina: Ability to stand for long periods and handle repetitive tasks.

– Time management: Completing tasks quickly during peak meal hours.

– Attention to detail: Ensuring dishes are spotless and sanitized properly.

– Teamwork: Working closely with cooks, servers, and other kitchen staff.

– Work ethic: Reliability and consistency are highly valued in hospitality environments.

Typical work environment

Dishwashers typically work in fast-paced kitchens that require coordination and communication. According to Glassdoor Career Insights, these positions may involve evening, weekend, and holiday shifts, particularly in busy restaurants.

– Environment: Hot, humid, and busy kitchen atmosphere.

– Schedule: Shifts can be part-time or full-time, often during peak dining hours.

– Team dynamics: Dishwashers coordinate closely with cooks and cleaning staff.

– Dress code: Non-slip shoes, gloves, and aprons are typically required.

– Safety: Training on safe handling of sharp tools, chemicals, and hot equipment is common.

Pay scale and job outlook

Dishwasher jobs offer competitive hourly pay and frequent opportunities for overtime. As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median wage for dishwashers in 2024 was approximately $15 per hour, with experienced workers earning higher rates in metropolitan areas or upscale establishments.

– Average hourly wage: $13–$18 depending on location and experience.

– Full-time annual range: $27,000–$35,000 per year.

– Employment growth: Stable demand due to high turnover and consistent food service needs.

– Tips and benefits: Some restaurants offer shared tips, free meals, or health benefits.

– Advancement: Opportunities to move up into prep or line cook roles.

How to find dishwasher jobs

Dishwasher positions are widely available and easy to apply for online or in person. Major job boards and staffing agencies regularly post openings for kitchen and hospitality roles. You can explore listings on trusted platforms like Indeed and SimplyHired.

– Local restaurants: Walk-ins with resumes are often welcomed by managers.

– Online job portals: Search using keywords like “dishwasher,” “kitchen porter,” or “steward.”

– Hospitality networks: Sites like HCareers specialize in restaurant and hotel listings.

– Staffing agencies: Some agencies place workers in temporary or seasonal kitchen positions.

– Word of mouth: Many jobs are filled through personal referrals or internal promotions.

Career advancement opportunities

While dishwashing may seem like an entry-level job, it can lead to higher positions with experience and dedication. The hospitality industry often promotes from within, rewarding reliable workers. According to CareerBuilder, many chefs and managers began their careers as dishwashers before moving up the ranks.

– Prep cook: Learning food preparation skills opens the door to cooking roles.

– Line cook: With experience, dishwashers can advance into cooking stations.

– Kitchen supervisor: Oversee dishwashing and sanitation teams.

– Restaurant management: Long-term employees may advance to management with additional training.

– Catering and event services: Move into specialized food service or large-scale event support.

Tips for success as a dishwasher

Excelling in a dishwasher role requires a positive attitude, efficiency, and communication. The job is physically demanding, but it also teaches valuable skills in time management and teamwork.

– Stay organized: Keep a steady rhythm and prioritize tasks during rush hours.

– Communicate: Let cooks know when clean items are ready or when issues arise.

– Be proactive: Offer help in other areas when the dish station is under control.

– Learn the menu: Understanding kitchen flow improves coordination with staff.

– Show reliability: Consistency and punctuality can lead to raises or promotions.

Final thoughts

Dishwasher jobs may start at the base of the kitchen hierarchy, but they form the foundation of every successful restaurant. The role builds essential habits like discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail — qualities valued throughout the hospitality industry. Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or seeking steady employment, a dishwasher job offers a gateway to growth, skill-building, and long-term career potential.