Dishwasher Salary in Philadelphia, PA
Dishwashers in Philadelphia, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.10 per hour, which translates to about $604.00 per week, $2,617.33 per month, and $31,408.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Philadelphia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the food service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Philadelphia, PA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Philadelphia varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.16 | $446.40 | $1,929.60 | $23,180.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.10 | $604.00 | $2,612.27 | $31,408.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.44 | $817.60 | $3,534.27 | $42,483.20 |
Do Dishwashers in Philadelphia Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips, as their role primarily involves behind-the-scenes work in kitchens rather than direct customer service. Their earnings usually come from their hourly wage alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Philadelphia vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.10 per hour, or about $31,408.00 per year.
Dishwashers in Philadelphia align with the national average, earning approximately $15.10 per hour and $31,408.00 annually, reflecting typical wages for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Philadelphia for Dishwashers
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly higher wages for Dishwashers:
- Center City: $16.50 per hour
- University City: $17.00 per hour
Working in University City may provide Dishwashers with the best pay near Philadelphia, followed closely by Center City.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Philadelphia?
Several factors can influence how much a Dishwasher earns in Philadelphia:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Dishwashers often earn higher wages due to their familiarity with kitchen operations and efficiency.
- Skills and Efficiency: Dishwashers with skills such as equipment maintenance or faster work pace may receive better pay or opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels tend to offer higher salaries compared to fast food chains or casual diners.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts sometimes come with shift differentials that increase overall pay.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with high demand for food service staff may offer slightly better compensation to attract workers.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Philadelphia
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Philadelphia involves some basic steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable to demonstrate understanding of safe food handling.
- Pursue Local Certification: The Philadelphia Food Safety Certification is required for food handlers to comply with city health regulations.
- Attend Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Community College of Philadelphia provide foundational kitchen skills pertinent even for Dishwashers, including sanitation practices.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level openings are often available, allowing one to learn the ropes and progress in food service careers.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Philadelphia
Major establishments in Philadelphia looking for Dishwashers include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Dishwashers in Philadelphia Work At
Dishwashers find employment in a variety of food service settings such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Usually offer entry-level pay but provide ample opportunities for consistent work.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay competitive wages and might provide benefits for full-time employees.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments may pay higher rates due to the larger volume and standards required.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Typically offer the highest wages reflecting the demands for strict hygiene and efficiency.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the salary and working conditions of Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Philadelphia for Dishwashers
Those interested in similar hospitality careers might consider roles related to Dishwashing such as:
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Laundry Attendant roles, which have related duties within hospitality and food service environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Philadelphia
Dishwashers should familiarize themselves with local and federal employment regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry website for state labor laws and standards.
- Check local guidelines through the Official website of the City of Philadelphia for city-specific employment information.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's site for comprehensive federal labor laws and workers’ rights.