Dishwasher Salary in Columbia, MD
Dishwashers in Columbia, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $16.35 per hour, which translates to about $654.00 per week, $2,834.00 per month, and $34,008.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Columbia is growing positively at about 9.1% per year, reflecting an increasing need for kitchen support staff in the region’s expanding hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Columbia, MD?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Columbia varies based on experience and workplace, but the following general ranges give an insight into earnings at various stages of the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.80 | $592.00 | $2,558.67 | $30,784.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.35 | $654.00 | $2,834.00 | $34,008.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.07 | $722.80 | $3,126.53 | $37,565.60 |
Do Dishwashers in Columbia Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their work is typically behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their income is largely based on their hourly wage or salary alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Columbia vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of about $15.25 per hour, which totals roughly $31,720 per year.
Compared to this, Dishwashers in Columbia earn a bit more, with an average hourly wage of $16.35 and an annual salary of about $34,008.
This slightly higher local wage may be attributed to the area’s cost of living and demand for skilled kitchen staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Dishwashers
The following nearby areas offer different pay rates for Dishwashers:
- Downtown Columbia: $17.50 per hour
- Wilde Lake: $16.80 per hour
Dishwashers working in Downtown Columbia may experience higher wages, possibly due to the density of restaurants and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Columbia?
A Dishwasher’s salary in Columbia can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Reliability: Those with proven reliability and years of experience generally earn higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Proficiency in fast and thorough cleaning techniques can boost earnings and job opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels may pay better than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might come with compensation premiums.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Columbia’s growing hospitality market and living costs support competitive wages.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Columbia
Taking the right steps can increase one’s chances of starting and advancing as a Dishwasher in Columbia:
- Complete Basic Food Safety Training: Certifications such as Maryland Food Handlers Training and ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrate knowledge of kitchen sanitation and safety practices.
- Gain Foundational Skills: Programs like Howard Community College Culinary Arts Program offer training in kitchen safety and sanitation that benefit aspiring Dishwashers.
- Build Work Experience: Entry-level jobs or volunteer opportunities in kitchens help develop practical skills.
- Maintain Physical Stamina and Speed: Dishwashing demands sustained energy and quick work pace, so physical readiness helps.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Columbia
Several notable employers hiring Dishwashers in Columbia include:
- Whole Foods Market
- P.F. Chang's
- Busboys and Poets
- Maggiano's Little Italy
- First Watch
Establishments That Dishwashers in Columbia Work At
Dishwashers typically find employment in various types of dining and hospitality settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often hire Dishwashers with consistent hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may offer faster-paced work with slightly varied pay scales.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Dishwashers here might earn higher wages, especially during busy events.
- Caterers and Large-scale Food Production: Can offer steady work with opportunities for advancement.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact the salary and benefits available.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia for Dishwashers
If you are exploring roles related to Dishwashing in hospitality, consider the following similar career paths:
These include Fry Cook, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook - roles that involve vital kitchen functions and offer pathways for career growth.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Columbia
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Dishwashers in Columbia to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the Maryland Department of Labor - State labor laws and regulations for workplace rights and standards.
- Visit the Internal Revenue Service site for federal tax information relevant to employees.
- Check Howard County Government resources for local employment regulations and support.