Dishwasher Salary in Boston, MA
Dishwashers in Boston, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.43 per hour, which translates to about $737.20 per week, $3,194.53 per month, and $38,334.40 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Boston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Boston, MA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Boston varies by experience level and employer. Here’s an overview of wages at different stages of the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.01 | $600.40 | $2,601.73 | $31,220.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.43 | $737.20 | $3,194.53 | $38,334.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.64 | $905.60 | $3,912.53 | $46,691.20 |
Do Dishwashers in Boston Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves behind-the-scenes work rather than direct customer service. Their earnings mainly come from hourly wages.
Dishwasher Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, or about $32,240 per year.
Compared to these figures, Dishwashers in Boston earn slightly higher wages, with an average hourly pay of $18.43 and an annual salary of about $38,334.40.
This difference is likely influenced by Boston’s higher cost of living and the demand for skilled Dishwashers in the metropolitan area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Dishwashers
Several nearby areas offer competitive pay for Dishwashers:
- Woburn: $18.85 per hour
- Taunton: $18.51 per hour
These locations provide salaries close to or slightly above Boston’s average, making them worthwhile options for Dishwashers looking for opportunities in the region.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors impact how much a Dishwasher earns in Boston:
- Experience and Efficiency: Dishwashers with more experience and the ability to work quickly and reliably tend to receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or larger venues can offer better wages than smaller cafés or casual diners.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts might come with shift differentials that increase compensation.
- Workplace Location: Downtown Boston establishments may provide higher pay to offset living costs.
- Skills and Additional Duties: Dishwashers who take on extra responsibilities, such as kitchen cleaning or assisting with prep work, may earn more.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Boston
Becoming a Dishwasher in Boston involves a few straightforward steps.
- Apply for Positions in Local Establishments: Many restaurants, hotels, and catering companies offer entry-level Dishwasher jobs without formal education requirements.
- Gain Basic Culinary Knowledge: Programs like the Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program or the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts can provide foundational kitchen skills beneficial in this role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Massachusetts-mandated Allergen Awareness Training improve job prospects and compliance with health regulations.
- Build Reliability and Work Ethic: Experience and positive references strongly influence opportunities for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Boston
Several well-known employers actively hire Dishwashers in Boston, including:
- Sodexo Live
- The Cheesecake Factory
- bartaco
Establishments That Dishwashers in Boston Work At
Dishwashers find roles in a broad range of foodservice establishments:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually offer consistent schedules but moderate pay.
- Casual Dining: May provide better wages and potential for tips for other staff, but Dishwashers mainly earn a fixed wage.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Often provide higher pay and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Catering Companies: Pay can vary depending on event size and frequency.
The type of establishment can influence shift length, work environment, and salary levels, affecting overall earning potential for Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Dishwashers
Those interested in similar careers to a Dishwasher might consider roles such as Kitchen Porter, Busser, or Prep Cook, which also involve foundational kitchen support duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Boston
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Dishwashers working in Boston to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for information on state-specific labor laws including minimum wage and workplace protections.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws, overtime rules, and employee rights.