Dishwasher Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Dishwashers in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $14.82 per hour, translating to about $592.80 per week, $2,568.80 per month, and $30,825.60 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Milwaukee varies based on experience and working environment. Here is a breakdown of earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.82 | $592.80 | $2,568.80 | $30,825.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes focused on kitchen sanitation and support. Their income is usually limited to hourly wage and, in some cases, benefits.
Dishwasher Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
The national average for Dishwashers stands at about $14.82 per hour or roughly $30,825.60 per year.
Dishwashers in Milwaukee earn approximately the same hourly and yearly wages as the national average, reflecting consistency in pay scales for this position across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Dishwashers
Nearby areas around Milwaukee offer slightly varying wages for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East Side: $16.00 per hour
Dishwashers working in East Side tend to earn the highest local wages, possibly due to more upscale dining establishments and higher living costs.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Various factors impact how much a Dishwasher can earn in Milwaukee.
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers usually command higher wages based on skills and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses often pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Hours and Shifts: Overnight or holiday shifts sometimes come with premium pay.
- Additional Skills: Those who can handle minor kitchen tasks beyond washing dishes may earn more.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Milwaukee
Getting started as a Dishwasher in Milwaukee involves several straightforward steps.
- Complete Culinary or Kitchen Operations Training: Programs like the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Waukesha County Technical College Culinary Management Program provide foundational knowledge helpful for dishwashers looking to advance.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Wisconsin Food Manager Certification are valuable credentials that demonstrate knowledge of sanitation and safety standards.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Many start by applying at local restaurants, hotels, or cafeterias to build skills.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Milwaukee
Some prominent employers frequently hiring Dishwashers in Milwaukee include:
- Hilton
- Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
- The Bartolotta Restaurants
Establishments That Dishwashers in Milwaukee Work At
Dishwashers find employment across a range of hospitality establishments.
- Casual and Family Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer steady hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically provide structured work schedules and may have standardized pay scales.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may have better pay, benefits, and opportunities for promotion.
- Catering Services and Banquet Halls: Pay may vary based on event scale and seasonality.
Differences in salary often reflect the establishment's clientele, size, and service level, with higher-end venues paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Dishwashers
If you're interested in roles related to Dishwashing, consider exploring these similar careers in Milwaukee:
These include Kitchen Porter, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which share kitchen environment responsibilities and could offer career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Milwaukee
As a Dishwasher in Milwaukee, understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for ensuring fair work practices.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For details on Wisconsin state-specific labor laws and employment resources, see the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.