Dishwasher Salary in Fort Collins, CO
Dishwashers in Fort Collins, CO, 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 Fort Collins is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for those looking to enter the hospitality workforce in this region.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Fort Collins, CO?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Fort Collins varies somewhat depending on experience and employer, but here’s a general salary range at different levels.
| 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) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Fort Collins Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as they work primarily behind the scenes and have limited direct customer interaction. Their earnings are typically based solely on their base pay.
Dishwasher Salary in Fort Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Fort Collins, Dishwashers earn slightly less on average, with about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This difference could reflect local cost of living and labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Collins for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer some variation in salary for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown: $17.60 per hour
Dishwashers working in Midtown tend to earn the highest wages, making it a lucrative nearby area for employment in this role.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Fort Collins?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Fort Collins is influenced by various factors:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers who understand kitchen operations well may earn more.
- Skills and Efficiency: Efficiency in fast-paced kitchens can lead to better pay or bonuses.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or larger hotels tend to offer higher wages compared to casual eateries.
- Location: Dishwashers working in high-demand or affluent neighborhoods often get paid more.
- Certifications: Having certifications like ServSafe Food Handler can add value to a Dishwasher’s qualifications.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Fort Collins
Getting started as a Dishwasher in Fort Collins involves several clear steps:
- Gain Basic Kitchen Knowledge: Learn about kitchen safety, sanitation, and proper dishwashing techniques.
- Consider Relevant Training Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Certificate Program offered by Front Range Community College provide foundational skills in kitchen safety and sanitation.
- Hospitality Management Education: For broader knowledge of the food service industry, the Hospitality Management Program at Colorado State University covers aspects of kitchen management relevant for career growth.
- Earn Certifications: Acquiring a ServSafe Food Handler Certification or a Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC) certificate from the American Culinary Federation can enhance job prospects.
- Start Entry-Level: Many Dishwashers start with on-the-job training in casual dining or fast food establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Fort Collins
Several prominent restaurant chains and venues in Fort Collins often hire Dishwashers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Dishwashers in Fort Collins Work At
Dishwashers typically find jobs in a variety of hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Restaurants: Usually offer stable employment with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual and Fast Food: Often provide entry-level opportunities but with lower salary ranges.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can offer higher wages and more structured work environments.
- Catering and Banquet Facilities: May demand flexible hours and reward efficiency.
The type of establishment can greatly impact the salary scale, with fine dining and hotels generally offering higher pay than casual eateries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Collins for Dishwashers
If you’re exploring careers similar to Dishwasher, consider these related roles that share some skills and environments:
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook — roles which also focus on supporting kitchen and dining operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Fort Collins
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Dishwashers working in Fort Collins.
- Details on state labor laws including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace conditions can be found on the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- For federal labor standards and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.