Dishwasher Salary in Lexington, KY
Dishwashers in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $15.15 per hour, which translates to about $606.00 per week, $2,626.00 per month, and $31,512.00 per year.
The job demand for Dishwashers in Lexington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Lexington can vary with experience level and employer type. Here is an overview of typical earnings based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.99 | $519.60 | $2,249.40 | $26,992.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.15 | $606.00 | $2,626.00 | $31,512.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.27 | $850.80 | $3,678.80 | $44,241.60 |
Do Dishwashers in Lexington Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips since their primary duties focus on cleaning and sanitation rather than direct customer service. Their income is generally based solely on hourly wages or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Lexington earn slightly more at about $15.15 per hour and $31,512 annually.
This increase may be influenced by local demand, cost of living, and hospitality industry growth in Lexington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Dishwashers include:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Chevy Chase: $17.00 per hour
These locations tend to have higher wages due to increased activity in restaurants and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Lexington?
Several factors can impact the salary range for Dishwashers in Lexington:
- Experience and Reliability: More experienced Dishwashers who consistently perform well may earn higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Proficiency in kitchen sanitation and speed can lead to better pay and job stability.
- Type of Establishment: Working in higher-end restaurants or hotels often offers better compensation than fast casual or small diners.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may include shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Economy: Lexington's growing hospitality and tourism industry supports demand and wage increases for Dishwashers.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Lexington
Pursuing a career as a Dishwasher in Lexington involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Kitchen Experience: Entry-level Dishwashers usually receive on-the-job training to learn cleaning procedures and kitchen safety.
- Complete Culinary or Food Safety Programs: Programs like the Bluegrass Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in kitchen safety and sanitation, essential for Dishwashers.
- Enhance Skills with Local Courses: The Lexington Cooking School provides short courses on kitchen operations and maintenance, beneficial to hone dishwashing skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Kentucky Food Manager Certification validate knowledge of food safety and hygiene, often preferred by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Lexington
Lexington boasts a variety of establishments actively seeking Dishwashers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- J. Alexander's Restaurants
- UK Chandler Hospital/Compass Group
Establishments That Dishwashers in Lexington Work At
Dishwashers in Lexington typically find work in many types of foodservice establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These usually offer consistent work hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Such venues often have higher volume but lower pay than upscale places.
- Hotels and Hospitals: Employers like UK Chandler Hospital may offer better benefits and slightly higher wages.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Work here can vary seasonally but sometimes pays better.
The type of establishment affects the dishwasher’s workload and earning potential, with upscale venues often paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Dishwashers
For those interested in roles similar to Dishwashers, related positions in Lexington include:
These include Kitchen Porter, Busser, and Backwaiter positions, which involve support roles in hospitality and foodservice.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Lexington
Dishwashers should familiarize themselves with labor laws and taxation to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities:
- Federal labor standards and regulations can be accessed via the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Kentucky Career Center offers state-specific employment and labor information.
- The Official Lexington city website provides resources related to local regulations and employment.