Dishwasher Salary in Oakland, CA
Dishwashers in Oakland, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.11 per hour, which translates to about $804.40 per week, $3,485.73 per month, and $41,828.80 per year.
The job market for Dishwashers in Oakland is growing steadily with about 5% annual growth, indicating a positive demand for this role year over year.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Oakland, CA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Oakland varies by experience level and employer, but the following figures provide a general overview of pay scales in the city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.12 | $684.80 | $2,951.47 | $35,417.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.11 | $804.40 | $3,485.73 | $41,828.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.62 | $944.80 | $4,060.53 | $48,979.60 |
Do Dishwashers in Oakland, CA Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips due to the nature of their role mostly being behind the scenes. Their compensation is usually limited to wages without additional tip income.
Dishwasher Salary in Oakland, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn on average around $15.47 per hour, which amounts to approximately $32,177.60 per year.
Compared to this, Dishwashers in Oakland earn considerably more, with hourly wages at about $20.11 and annual pay around $41,828.80. This difference reflects regional economic factors and local employer standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oakland for Dishwashers
Nearby Oakland, there are a couple of neighborhoods where Dishwashers enjoy higher pay rates:
- Downtown Oakland: $21.50 per hour
- Rockridge: $22.00 per hour
These areas offer a slightly higher hourly wage reflecting the local cost of living and demand for skilled Dishwashers.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Oakland?
Several factors affect how much a Dishwasher can earn in Oakland. Experience is a major component; those with more years working in the industry or in high-demand kitchens typically earn better wages.
The type of establishment also shapes salaries. Higher-end restaurants or medical facilities may offer higher pay and better benefits compared to fast food outlets or casual dining spots.
Additional skills and reliability such as ability to handle multiple kitchen tasks and adherence to safety standards can lead to raises or promotions within an establishment.
Local economic conditions and labor unions can also influence wage levels in the Oakland area.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Oakland
Becoming a Dishwasher in Oakland requires a mixture of entry-level preparedness and familiarity with kitchen operations.
Many Dishwashers build practical skills on the job, but enrolling in culinary or hospitality programs can provide a helpful edge. For example, Laney College Culinary Arts Program offers hands-on training in kitchen operations that includes dishwashing techniques and safety.
The Alameda Adult School Hospitality Program also provides training focused on hospitality industry skills such as kitchen sanitation and basic food preparation.
Certification is important in the food service sector and obtaining a California Food Handler Card is mandatory for food service employees, ensuring awareness of safe food handling practices.
The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and teaches comprehensive food sanitation and safety, which can be advantageous for job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Oakland
Several prominent employers in Oakland regularly hire Dishwashers, including:
- Sutter Health
- HumanGood
- Kaiser Permanente
- Marriott International
- Whole Foods Market
Establishments That Dishwashers in Oakland Work At
Dishwashers typically work in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual and fast-casual restaurants which often have steady workflows and moderate pay.
- Luxury hotels and resorts that may offer higher salaries due to upscale services and expectations.
- Healthcare facilities like hospitals where sanitation and speedy clean-up are critical, sometimes paying more.
- Institutional cafeterias in schools or companies, which provide consistent shifts but possibly lower wages.
The kind of establishment plays a meaningful role in the salary and working conditions a Dishwasher can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oakland for Dishwashers
For those interested in related career paths, several similar positions exist within the hospitality industry.
These include Kitchen Porter, Line Cook, and Dishwasher, which require overlapping skills in kitchen operation and upkeep but vary in responsibilities and salary potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Oakland
Dishwashers should be informed about labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their work and income in Oakland.
- See the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for general worker rights and protections.
- California-specific employment standards are detailed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local employment resources and regulations can be found at the City of Oakland's official website.