Career Profile: Dishwashers

Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 398,200 people employed as dishwashers in the United States. The median annual salary is $28,130. Entry level employees earn approximately $19,200 per year and senior employees earn approximately $34,870 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Transfer supplies or equipment between storage and work areas, by hand or using hand trucks.
• Clean or prepare various foods for cooking or serving.
• Prepare and package individual place settings.
• Load or unload trucks that deliver or pick up food or supplies.
• Clean garbage cans with water or steam.
• Receive and store supplies.
• Wash dishes, glassware, flatware, pots, or pans, using dishwashers or by hand.
• Place clean dishes, utensils, or cooking equipment in storage areas.
• Sort and remove trash, placing it in designated pickup areas.
• Sweep or scrub floors.
• Maintain kitchen work areas, equipment, or utensils in clean and orderly condition.
• Stock supplies, such as food or utensils, in serving stations, cupboards, refrigerators, or salad bars.
• Set up banquet tables.

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