Dishwasher Salary in Memphis, TN
Dishwashers in Memphis, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.46 per hour, which breaks down to about $578.40 per week, $2,506.40 per month, and $30,076.80 per year.
The job market for Dishwashers in Memphis is showing positive growth, increasing at around 5% per year. This suggests an expanding demand for Dishwashers driven by the city's vibrant hospitality and dining industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Memphis, TN?
The salary for a Dishwasher in Memphis can vary based on experience, skills, and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical 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) | $13.00 | $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 Memphis Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes and not directly customer-facing. Their earnings typically come from their base salary or hourly wage alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Memphis vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn about $15.20 per hour, which amounts to approximately $31,616 per year.
By comparison, Dishwashers in Memphis earn slightly less at $14.46 per hour and $30,076.80 annually. This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Memphis for Dishwashers
Nearby areas with competitive wages for Dishwashers include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown: $14.75 per hour
Dishwashers in Downtown Memphis tend to earn the highest wages in the region, followed closely by those in Midtown.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Memphis?
Several factors affect the salary of a Dishwasher in Memphis:
- Experience: Dishwashers with more years on the job typically earn higher wages due to improved efficiency and reliability.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of kitchen sanitation, safety protocols, and certification such as ServSafe Food Handler can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large hospitality venues often pays more than casual or fast food restaurants.
- Shift Hours: Dishwashers working night shifts or weekends might receive shift differentials impacting their pay.
- Location: Wages can vary within Memphis neighborhoods or between Memphis and surrounding areas.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Memphis
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Memphis involves some practical steps to increase employability and earning potential:
- Complete Training Programs: Courses such as the Southwest Tennessee Community College Culinary Arts Program provide essential kitchen safety and sanitation training that benefits Dishwashers.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Attending programs like the Memphis Cook Convention Center Hospitality Training offers real-world exposure to large-scale kitchen operations.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and critical for maintaining hygiene standards.
- Additional Permits: Though primarily for servers, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit includes training relevant for handling glassware and utensils.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Memphis
Several notable companies and organizations are significant employers of Dishwashers in Memphis, including:
- American Cruise Lines
- P.F. Chang's
- Eurest
- The Arbor Company
- Seasons 52
Establishments That Dishwashers in Memphis Work At
Dishwashers typically find roles in various hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These may offer moderate pay and often flexible hours.
- Fast Casual Chains: The faster pace may affect the workload but wages are generally competitive.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations usually pay better and might offer benefits along with stable hours.
- Banquet and Event Venues: Event-driven work can vary but sometimes offers higher pay per event.
The type of establishment influences salary, with upscale and large-scale venues generally providing improved compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Memphis for Dishwashers
If you're considering careers similar to Dishwasher, here are some related roles to explore that overlap in skill sets and work environment.
These include Kitchen Porter, Busser, and Fry Cook positions, which share some duties or environments with Dishwashers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Memphis
Dishwashers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development for state labor laws and employment resources.
- The U.S. Department of Labor provides information on federal workplace standards and regulations.
- For local government services and regulations, see the City of Memphis Official Website.