Dishwasher Salary in Alexandria, VA
Dishwashers in Alexandria, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.84 per hour, which translates to about $633.60 per week, $2,745.60 per month, and $32,947.20 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Alexandria is growing at around 5% per year, indicating a steady and healthy increase in employment opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Alexandria, VA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Alexandria can vary based on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a breakdown of pay at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.84 | $633.60 | $2,732.80 | $32,947.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Alexandria Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips, as their role mostly involves back-of-house duties without direct customer interaction. Their earnings come primarily from their hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Dishwasher Salary in Alexandria vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.00 per hour, translating to about $29,120 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Alexandria earn slightly more, with an average hourly pay of $15.84 and yearly earnings of about $32,947.20.
This difference can be attributed to the local cost of living and demand in the Alexandria area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Alexandria for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Dishwashers as well:
- Old Town: $16.50 per hour
- Del Ray: $16.00 per hour
Dishwashers working in Old Town have the opportunity to earn slightly more than those in Del Ray and Alexandria itself.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Alexandria?
Several key factors can impact how much a Dishwasher earns in Alexandria:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers may command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to handle fast-paced environments and knowledge of kitchen sanitation can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or hotels often pays more than fast-food or casual dining locations.
- Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts sometimes offer extra pay, impacting total salary.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Alexandria’s urban environment typically supports higher wages than more rural areas.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Alexandria
Becoming a Dishwasher in Alexandria involves several straightforward steps:
- Gain Basic Culinary Skills: Culinary Arts Program at Northern Virginia Community College provides essential kitchen safety, food preparation, and sanitation training, valuable for entering the industry.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required for entry-level food service roles.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Starting in casual dining or fast-food establishments can provide practical experience.
- Develop Work Ethic and Efficiency: Speed, reliability, and good teamwork are important traits to advance or increase earning potential.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Alexandria
Several prominent employers in Alexandria frequently seek Dishwashers:
- Whole Foods Market
- Clyde's Restaurant Group
- SAGE Dining Services
- First Watch
- Founding Farmers
Establishments That Dishwashers in Alexandria Work At
Dishwashers typically find work in various types of food establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay and steady hours; often a starting point for Dishwashers.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Generally lower wages, but opportunities for flexible schedules.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher pay and potential benefits, reflecting the upscale environment.
- Catering and Event Venues: Variable work hours with chances to earn more during busy seasons.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with more prestigious venues offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Alexandria for Dishwashers
If you are exploring roles similar to Dishwasher, here are some related careers worth considering:
These include Kitchen Porter, Line Cook, and Busser positions, which share similarities in kitchen support and food service roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Alexandria
Dishwashers in Alexandria should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for federal regulations.
- Check the State website for employment and labor resources in Virginia for state-specific rules.
- Refer to the Local government website for Alexandria, VA for city services and regulations impacting workers.