Let’s Talk About Dishwashing Jobs
Okay, let’s be real—when most people think of a “dishwasher,” they picture either a shiny stainless-steel machine humming away after dinner or someone scrubbing away in the back of a bustling restaurant. But here’s the thing: human dishwashers—the hardworking folks behind the scenes—are the backbone of every kitchen operation. And guess what? That job might just pay more than you think.
So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Do dishwashers actually make good money?”—you’re not alone. Let’s break it down. We’ll look at the pay, the perks, and whether or not it’s worth considering (or sticking with) as a career move.
Ready? Cool. Let’s go.
So… How Much Do Dishwashers Actually Make?
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. According to U.S. data (just to anchor things a bit), the average hourly wage for a dishwasher sits around $13 to $16 per hour—give or take. That adds up to roughly $27,000 to $33,000 a year if you’re full-time.
“But wait,” you’re probably thinking, “is that good money?”
Well, that depends on where you live and what your goals are. In major cities like New York or San Francisco, you’ll likely see higher hourly rates—but also way higher rent. In smaller towns, the pay might dip a bit, but the cost of living often balances things out.
Try thinking of it this way: If you’re looking for a steady paycheck, flexible hours, and you’re just getting started in the workforce (or need a quick way back in), dishwashing can be a solid gig. Plus, there’s often overtime and tips involved—especially in busy restaurants.
Up next: let’s talk about something that’s rarely mentioned—career growth.
Is There Room to Grow?
You might be surprised, but many people start as dishwashers and end up climbing the restaurant ladder.
No joke—some executive chefs, restaurant managers, and even owners started out rinsing plates and scrubbing pans. Why? Because they learned the ropes from the ground up. It’s one of those roles that gives you a front-row seat to how a kitchen actually runs.
Think about it—if you show up on time, work hard, and build relationships, there’s often a path forward. Line cook? Prep cook? Sous-chef someday? Totally possible.
Imagine this: You start off just wanting a part-time gig. A few months later, the head chef notices your work ethic. Boom—promotion. Now you’re on the grill. And with that comes more money, more responsibility, and more skills under your belt.
But beyond the paycheck, there’s another factor that often gets overlooked…
What About Job Security and Lifestyle?
Let’s face it—some jobs come and go, but restaurants? They’re always hiring.
Dishwasher roles are usually in high demand, especially in busy seasons or cities with tons of food spots. That means if you’re reliable, you can probably find work pretty easily—even if it’s just short-term to get through a rough patch.
Plus, the hours can be flexible. Need nights? Weekends? Part-time during the day? There’s often wiggle room. And for students, side hustlers, or people juggling other gigs—that flexibility is golden.
Sure, it’s hard work. It’s fast-paced, it can get hot, and your feet might be sore by the end of your shift. But it’s honest work. And in a world full of uncertainty, showing up and putting in a solid day’s work is something to be proud of.
Let’s wrap it all up…
So… Is It “Good Money”?
Here’s the honest answer: it can be.
If you’re looking for a way to pay the bills, get your foot in the door, or earn while you figure out your next step—dishwashing is a legit option. And if you stick with it? There’s opportunity to grow, learn, and earn more.
It’s not glamorous. It might not be what you imagined growing up. But it’s real, respectable, and in some cases—it pays off big time.
Next step? If you’re considering a dishwashing job, look around. Read reviews of restaurants. Ask about tips or meal perks. Chat with current employees. Then decide if it’s the right fit for your goals right now.