Dishwasher Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Dishwashers in Chattanooga, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Chattanooga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for this essential hospitality role in the area.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Chattanooga can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,028.00 | $24,336.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.90 | $556.00 | $2,409.33 | $28,912.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,676.67 | $32,240.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role typically involves behind-the-scenes work focused on cleaning dishes and maintaining kitchen sanitation rather than direct customer service.
Dishwasher Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Chattanooga earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $13.90 and a yearly salary around $28,912. This variance can be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Dishwashers
When exploring nearby areas, Dishwasher salaries can differ significantly:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Northshore: $17.60 per hour
Dishwashers working in Northshore enjoy the highest pay, which is notably above the Chattanooga average, while Downtown offers competitive wages as well.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several factors can impact how much a Dishwasher earns in Chattanooga:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers tend to command higher wages as they bring efficiency and reliability to the role.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of kitchen safety, sanitation, and possible certifications can enhance salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or large hotels often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts may come with additional pay incentives.
- Local Demand: Areas with higher hospitality activity may offer better compensation due to competitive staffing needs.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Chattanooga
Getting started as a Dishwasher in Chattanooga involves a few key steps to enhance your qualifications and improve job prospects.
Complete relevant training programs: Institutions like Chattanooga State Community College offer Culinary Arts Programs that cover essential kitchen safety and sanitation skills vital for Dishwashers.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga provides a Hospitality Management Program that includes knowledge on back-of-house operations relevant to dishwashing positions.
Obtaining nationally recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can demonstrate your dedication to food safety standards, making you a more attractive hire.
While the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit is mainly for servers, understanding alcohol service regulations can be beneficial when working in busy restaurant environments.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Chattanooga
Several prominent companies frequently look for qualified Dishwashers in Chattanooga, including:
- Whole Foods Market
- P.F. Chang's
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Dishwashers in Chattanooga Work At
Dishwashers can find employment in a variety of hospitality establishments across Chattanooga:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These are common employers offering steady work but generally moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food Outlets: Often provide entry-level opportunities with consistent hours but usually lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations that often pay higher wages and may provide benefits.
- Catering Services and Banquets: These venues can offer varied shifts and sometimes higher pay during event seasons.
The type of establishment influences the salary, with upscale and larger venues typically offering more competitive compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Dishwashers
If you’re interested in roles related to dishwashing, consider exploring these similar positions that share overlapping skills and work environments.
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Porter roles, all of which involve supporting kitchen and dining operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Chattanooga
Dishwashers should be informed about state and federal labor laws to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Check the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development for state labor laws and employment resources.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers information on federal workplace standards and labor regulations.
- Visit the City of Chattanooga Official Website for local government details and resources.