Dishwasher Salary in Nashville, TN
Dishwashers in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.85 per hour, which translates to about $634.00 per week, $2,747.33 per month, and $32,968.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling an increasing need for support roles in restaurants and food service establishments in the area.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Nashville can vary depending on experience and the employer’s scale, but here is a general overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.09 | $483.60 | $2,093.40 | $25,123.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.85 | $634.00 | $2,747.33 | $32,968.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.78 | $831.20 | $3,594.53 | $43,206.40 |
Do Dishwashers in Nashville Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes handling cleaning duties. Their earnings come from wages, without additional income from tipping.
Dishwasher Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of approximately $15.85 per hour and about $32,968.00 per year.
This means Dishwashers in Nashville earn roughly on par with the national average, reflecting consistent wage standards across the country for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Dishwashers
For those willing to commute or seek opportunities close to Nashville, here are some of the highest-paying areas for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- The Gulch: $18.00 per hour
Both Downtown and The Gulch offer better compensation than the city average, likely due to higher living costs and the presence of upscale establishments needing skilled kitchen staff.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how much a Dishwasher can earn in Nashville:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers tend to command higher wages due to proven reliability and efficiency.
- Skills and Work Ethic: Ability to handle high volume, maintain cleanliness, and safety standards can lead to raises or bonuses.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or hotels often pay more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Night shifts or weekend work might offer premium pay rates.
- Local Demand and Economic Conditions: A growing hospitality industry in Nashville drives demand and affects wage levels.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Nashville
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Nashville involves a combination of basic skills and some formal preparation:
- Gain Basic Kitchen Knowledge: Understanding kitchen safety and sanitation is essential. Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Nashville State Community College offer comprehensive training that covers these fundamentals.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Tennessee State University provides education on back-of-house operations, giving a broader perspective of kitchen workflows.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification improve employability and demonstrate knowledge in food safety and workplace safety.
- Practical Experience: Starting with entry-level roles in food service can build relevant skills and improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Nashville
Several well-known employers actively seek Dishwashers in Nashville, offering a variety of job opportunities:
- Jim 'N Nick's
- Blanco (Cocina + Cantina)
- Puttshack
Establishments That Dishwashers in Nashville Work At
Dishwashers typically find employment in a range of hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places usually offer steady work but may have moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Outlets: High turnover and fast pace characterize these workplaces, where Dishwashers are essential to quick service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and may provide benefits, along with opportunities for advancement in kitchen roles.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: Require Dishwashers for large-scale clean-up operations and might offer variable pay depending on event schedules.
The type of establishment affects salary as well as potential for additional benefits and regular hours.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Dishwashers
If you are considering similar roles to Dishwasher within the hospitality industry, here are some related positions that might interest you:
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Steward positions, which share similar responsibilities related to maintaining cleanliness and supporting kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Nashville
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Dishwashers working in Nashville, TN.
- You can find information about Tennessee's labor laws and employment regulations on the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.