Dishwasher Salary in Durham, NC
Dishwashers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $14.89 per hour, which translates to about $595.60 per week, $2,580.93 per month, and $30,971.20 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Durham varies depending on experience and employer. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.94 | $517.60 | $2,240.53 | $26,886.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.89 | $595.60 | $2,580.93 | $30,971.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.14 | $685.60 | $2,945.87 | $35,611.20 |
Do Dishwashers in Durham Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on kitchen support rather than direct customer service. Their compensation usually comes entirely from hourly wages or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn about $14.89 per hour on average, making roughly $30,971.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, the salary for Dishwashers in Durham aligns exactly at $14.89 per hour and $30,971.20 annually, reflecting local market consistency with the broader United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $17.60 per hour
Dishwashers in Research Triangle Park earn notably higher wages, likely due to the area's concentration of businesses and hospitality venues offering competitive pay.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors can impact how much a Dishwasher earns in Durham:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers can command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to work quickly and maintain cleanliness affects pay potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels often offer better wages compared to fast-food outlets.
- Work Hours: Night or weekend shifts may include shift differentials.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications can sometimes boost opportunities and pay.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Durham
If you are interested in becoming a Dishwasher in Durham, here are some important steps:
- Obtain relevant training: Programs like the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program teach essential kitchen skills including sanitation and food safety.
- Consider hospitality education: The Wake Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program provides knowledge about kitchen operations and food service.
- Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and North Carolina Food Protection Manager Certification can strengthen your resume.
- Gain experience: Start with entry-level roles in kitchens to build hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Durham
Some of the employers actively hiring Dishwashers in Durham include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Dishwashers in Durham Work At
Dishwashers in Durham find opportunities in varied establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: Like McDonald's, these offer high turnover but generally lower wages.
- Casual Dining: Places such as Five Guys typically pay more than fast food and may offer more consistent schedules.
- Ethnic and Specialty Restaurants: Such as Fiji Island, where work demands might be higher but wages can be competitive.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Potentially offering higher pay and benefits.
The type of establishment greatly affects pay scale and working conditions for Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Dishwashers
If you are considering similar roles within the hospitality industry, here are a few related positions worth exploring:
These roles include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook—all of which involve essential support work within kitchen and dining operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Durham
Dishwashers in Durham should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for U.S. nationwide standards.
- Check the North Carolina Department of Labor's official site for state labor laws and workplace standards.
- For local government resources, see the City of Durham's official website.