Dishwasher in Madison, WI
Dishwashers in Madison, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $16.03 per hour, which translates to about $641.20 per week, $2,778.53 per month, and $33,342.40 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Madison is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this essential hospitality role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Madison, WI?
Dishwasher salaries in Madison can vary depending on experience, but the following overview provides typical earnings for entry-level, mid-level, and top earners in the city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.97 | $518.80 | $2,242.67 | $26,254.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,778.53 | $33,342.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.80 | $792.00 | $3,424.00 | $41,184.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Madison Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips in most establishments since their role typically involves back-of-house duties without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is mostly based on salary or hourly wages.
Dishwasher Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $16.03 per hour, translating to about $33,342.40 per year.
In Madison, the average hourly and yearly wages for Dishwashers closely align with the national averages, reflecting a consistent pay scale for this occupation.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Dishwashers
Nearby areas to Madison offer slightly varying salaries for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Capitol Square: $18.00 per hour
Dishwashers working in Capitol Square have the potential to earn higher wages compared to other nearby locations, indicating some variation based on neighborhood and employer.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Dishwasher in Madison:
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers may command higher wages as they demonstrate efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or large institutions often pays better than fast food or smaller casual dining venues.
- Shift Timings: Night or weekend shifts may come with premium pay.
- Additional Responsibilities: Dishwashers who take on extra duties such as some food prep or cleaning may earn more.
- Local Economic Conditions: Supply and demand in Madison’s hospitality sector can influence wage levels.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Madison
Becoming a successful Dishwasher in Madison involves several practical steps and potential training opportunities:
- Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can be beneficial, as it demonstrates awareness of food safety standards.
- State-Specific Certification: The Wisconsin Food Manager Certification ensures compliance with local food safety regulations.
- Education Programs: Madison Area Technical College offers a Culinary Arts Program that covers essential kitchen operations and sanitation practices, laying a strong foundation for entry into hospitality roles including Dishwasher.
- Advanced Studies: The University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a Food Science Program which can be a pathway for those seeking more comprehensive knowledge in food preparation and safety.
- On-the-Job Training: Many Dishwashers learn through direct experience in restaurant or institutional kitchens, building skills over time.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Madison
Some of the leading employers offering opportunities for Dishwashers in Madison include:
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- UW Health
- Madison Metropolitan School District
Establishments That Dishwashers in Madison Work At
Dishwashers in Madison typically find work in a variety of hospitality settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady work with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: High volume may lead to more hours but sometimes lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may offer better pay and benefits.
- Institutional Kitchens: Including hospitals, schools, and universities, which can provide stable employment with structured schedules.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary levels, with more upscale or high-volume venues generally offering higher wages for Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Dishwashers
If you’re considering career paths close to Dishwasher, here are a few related roles you might explore:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Kitchen Porter – all roles that share some responsibilities with Dishwashers and may offer pathways for career advancement in the kitchen.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Madison
Understanding labor laws and taxes is crucial for Dishwashers to ensure proper wages and compliance.
- Information on Wisconsin's labor laws and employment resources can be found on the State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.
- For federal tax information, the Internal Revenue Service website provides comprehensive resources.