Dishwasher Salary in Portland, ME
Dishwashers in Portland, ME, earn approximately $19.85 per hour, which translates to about $794.00 per week, $3,440.67 per month, and $41,288.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and continued opportunities in this essential hospitality role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Portland, ME?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Portland varies with skill and experience, but the following table offers a breakdown across typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.09 | $683.60 | $2,958.67 | $35,504.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.85 | $794.00 | $3,440.67 | $41,288.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.06 | $922.40 | $3,981.07 | $47,964.80 |
Do Dishwashers in Portland, ME Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips since their role is mostly behind the scenes with limited direct customer interaction. Their compensation is generally based on wages or salary alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Portland, ME vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.27 per hour, which amounts to approximately $31,761.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Portland, ME earn a significantly higher wage, with an average of $19.85 per hour and $41,288.00 annually.
This difference can be attributed to local labor market conditions and cost of living factors in Portland.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland, ME for Dishwashers
Nearby areas also offer competitive pay for Dishwashers:
- Portland: $19.85 per hour
- Falmouth: $18.55 per hour
- Kennebunk: $18.16 per hour
Dishwashers working in Portland typically see the highest wages among these locations.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Portland, ME?
Several factors affect the earnings of Dishwashers in Portland:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Dishwashers who work quickly and reliably tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Dishwashers in upscale restaurants or large hotels may earn more than those in casual dining or fast food settings.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes come with shift differentials that increase pay.
- Additional Skills: Those who can assist with basic kitchen prep or cleaning duties might command better pay.
- Local Demand: Portland's vibrant hospitality industry influences competitive pay scales for dishwashing positions.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Portland, ME
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Portland is accessible with a few key steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Maine Food Protection Manager Certification demonstrates knowledge of important sanitation standards.
- Consider Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Southern Maine Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at University of Southern Maine offer valuable foundational knowledge relevant to work in kitchens.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many start in entry-level positions and advance based on reliability and work ethic.
- Develop Teamwork and Time Management Skills: These are crucial in fast-paced kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Portland, ME
Several notable local employers frequently seek Dishwashers:
- Mr. Tuna
- HMSHost
- Portland Harbor Hotel
- American Cruise Lines
Establishments That Dishwashers in Portland, ME Work At
Dishwashers find work in a variety of hospitality settings including:
- Casual Restaurants: Often have steady shifts but may offer moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Dining: Typically provide regular hours with competitive wages depending on location.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to pay higher wages and may offer additional benefits.
- Large Event Venues or Cruise Lines: Usually provide more hours and potentially better compensation to handle high volumes.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly influence the salary potential of Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland, ME for Dishwashers
If you're considering roles related to Dishwashing, here are some similar careers in the hospitality industry you may explore:
These include positions such as Kitchen Porter, Fry Cook, and Cook—all roles integral to efficient kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Portland, ME
Understanding labor regulations and tax obligations is important for Dishwashers working in Portland.
- Check the Maine state government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, workplace rights, and employment standards.
- Learn about federal labor regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor’s official site, which covers wage laws, overtime rules, and more.