Dishwasher Salary in El Cajon, CA
Dishwashers in El Cajon, CA, 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 El Cajon is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and job security in this field.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in El Cajon, CA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in El Cajon can vary based on experience and work environment. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.90 | $556.00 | $2,409.33 | $28,912.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Dishwashers in El Cajon Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes, focusing on cleaning and sanitizing. Their compensation is usually limited to hourly wages without additional tip income.
Dishwasher Salary in El Cajon vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in El Cajon earn slightly less with an average hourly wage of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912.00. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Cajon for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Dishwashers:
- Downtown El Cajon: $15.50 per hour
- Rancho San Diego: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute to Rancho San Diego can expect a higher hourly wage compared to other nearby neighborhoods, offering attractive earning opportunities.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in El Cajon?
Several factors can influence how much a Dishwasher earns in El Cajon:
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers tend to earn better wages as they bring greater efficiency and reliability to their role.
- Type of Establishment: Dishwashers working in upscale restaurants or hotels often receive higher pay compared to those in fast food or casual dining locations.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might offer premium pay due to demand for coverage during less popular hours.
- Skills and Additional Duties: Dishwashers who handle kitchen prep tasks or have food safety certifications can enhance their earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: El Cajon's specific economic conditions impact wage standards for this position.
How To Become a Dishwasher in El Cajon
Getting started as a Dishwasher in El Cajon requires some practical steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Certification: In California, having a Food Handler's Card is mandatory for all food service workers, including Dishwashers.
- Consider Completing Culinary-Related Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Grossmont College or the San Diego Continuing Education Culinary Arts Program can provide valuable knowledge and skills for advancing beyond dishwashing.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Dishwashers start with entry-level positions to develop an understanding of kitchen operations and sanitation standards.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: Though not always mandatory for Dishwashers, the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification can improve employability and demonstrate commitment to food safety.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in El Cajon
Prominent employers in El Cajon actively recruit Dishwashers, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Dishwashers in El Cajon Work At
Dishwashers typically find employment across various types of food service establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often have the highest demand for Dishwashers, with fast-paced environments but generally lower pay.
- Casual Dining: These restaurants usually offer moderate wages with a structured kitchen staff.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May provide higher compensation and benefits due to upscale operations and event-based work.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Dishwashers here may earn more due to the higher standards and formal settings.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with higher-end venues often paying more to retain skilled staff.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Cajon for Dishwashers
If you're interested in roles related to Dishwashing, consider exploring similar careers in hospitality:
These include Busser, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook, roles that build useful kitchen experience and can lead to career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in El Cajon
Dishwashers should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations applicable federally, statewide in California, and locally in San Diego and El Cajon:
- Review federal labor policies at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Check for California-specific labor laws and workplace standards via the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Explore local resources and regulations on the City of San Diego website, which covers San Diego County, including El Cajon.