Dishwasher Salary in Buffalo, NY
Dishwashers in Buffalo, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $17.50 per hour, which translates to about $700.00 per week, $3,033.33 per month, and $36,400.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Buffalo is growing at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for professionals in this role within the hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Buffalo can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.23 | $849.20 | $3,683.87 | $44,100.40 |
Do Dishwashers in Buffalo Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips since their work is usually behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income generally comes from their hourly wage alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Buffalo vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, translating to approximately $32,240.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Buffalo earn slightly more, at about $17.50 per hour and $36,400.00 annually, reflecting the local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Dishwashers
When looking at nearby areas, Dishwasher salaries are as follows:
- Central Business District: $15.50 per hour
- Willert Park: $15.50 per hour
Both these areas offer similar pay rates. Commuting to these locations might have comparable earning potential for Dishwashers relative to Buffalo.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Buffalo?
Several factors influence the salary of a Dishwasher in Buffalo:
- Experience: Dishwashers with more years of experience or seniority may receive higher pay.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to work quickly and maintain sanitation standards can impact wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering companies generally pay more than fast casual or small diners.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts might come with differential pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Buffalo’s living costs and hospitality industry demand play roles in wage levels.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Buffalo
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Buffalo involves a few steps to enhance your employment prospects and salary potential:
- Gain Basic Training: Enrolling in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Erie Community College can provide essential kitchen skills including sanitation and safety.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Buffalo State College offers broader insight into back-of-house operations, valuable for career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification are advantageous and sometimes required.
- Build Work Experience: Entry-level jobs or internships in restaurants and hotels offer hands-on experience.
- Develop Strong Work Ethics: Reliability, teamwork, and attention to cleanliness can improve job security and promotion chances.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Buffalo
Several well-known establishments in Buffalo actively hire Dishwashers:
- Buffalo Yacht Club
- Buffalo Chophouse
- JT's Urban Italian
Establishments That Dishwashers in Buffalo Work At
Dishwashers in Buffalo typically work across a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These locations offer steady work and competitive hourly wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Salary here may be modest but with opportunities for advancement and flexible hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher pay and benefits for dishwashing staff due to scale and volume.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can offer seasonal work with pay varying based on event size and frequency.
Different types of establishments influence Dishwashers’ salaries by the volume of work, the scale of the operation, and clientele served.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo for Dishwashers
If you're interested in careers similar to Dishwashing, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Laundry Attendant positions, which share similar entry requirements and work environments within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Buffalo
Dishwashers in Buffalo should be aware of both federal and state labor laws affecting their employment and taxes:
- For federal labor laws and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- To learn more about New York State-specific labor laws, minimum wage, and other employment regulations, consult the New York State Department of Labor website.