Dishwasher Salary in Portland, OR
Dishwashers in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $17.83 per hour, which translates to about $713.20 per week, $3,090.53 per month, and $37,086.40 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Portland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive growth and a healthy job market for this essential hospitality role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Portland varies by experience. Here’s a general breakdown of earnings based on experience levels, giving an idea of potential income for those in this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.72 | $588.80 | $2,545.87 | $31,450.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.83 | $713.20 | $3,090.53 | $37,086.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.61 | $864.40 | $3,733.87 | $44,908.80 |
Do Dishwashers in Portland Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role is typically behind the scenes and does not involve customer interactions. Their compensation mainly comes through wages or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn about $15.50 per hour, which comes to roughly $32,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Portland earn more, with an average hourly wage of $17.83 and a yearly salary around $37,086.40.
This difference may be due to Portland's cost of living and demand for hospitality workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Dishwashers:
- Lake Oswego: $18.88 per hour
- Sisters: $18.63 per hour
Lake Oswego provides the highest salary for Dishwashers nearby Portland, which might attract commuters seeking better pay.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Portland?
Experience and Skill: More experienced Dishwashers who efficiently manage high-volume kitchen operations often earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Dishwashers working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering companies tend to be paid more than those in smaller casual eateries.
Shift Timing: Working night or weekend shifts can sometimes yield additional pay differentials.
Certifications and Training: Holding food safety or sanitation certificates can make candidates more desirable and command better pay.
Local Market Demand: Portland’s growing hospitality industry increases competition for qualified Dishwashers, potentially driving salaries upward.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Portland
To launch a career as a Dishwasher in Portland, here are some practical steps:
- Consider enrolling in the Portland Community College Culinary Assistant Program which offers valuable training in kitchen operations, dishwashing techniques, and safety practices.
- The Oregon Culinary Institute Kitchen Steward Training provides hands-on experience in maintaining kitchen cleanliness and equipment, essential for Dishwashers.
- Obtain required certifications such as the Oregon Food Handler Certification, mandatory for food service workers in Oregon.
- The ServSafe Food Handler Certification, a nationally recognized credential, is also beneficial for understanding food safety.
- Gain experience through entry-level positions in restaurants or hotels to develop essential practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Portland
Several prominent employers in Portland frequently hire Dishwashers including:
- McMenamins
- The Nines Hotel
- Providence Health & Services
Establishments That Dishwashers in Portland Work At
Dishwashers typically work in a variety of hospitality settings:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often entry points for Dishwashers, with moderate pay but good opportunities for experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Generally offer higher pay and stable hours due to larger operations and higher standards.
- Healthcare Facilities: Such as those operated by Providence Health & Services, often provide steady schedules and benefits.
- Catering and Event Venues: Can offer variable work hours but sometimes higher pay during busy seasons or events.
The establishment type substantially impacts pay, hours, and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Dishwashers
For those interested in related roles within hospitality, the following positions may be suitable next steps or alternatives to Dishwashing:
These include Steward, Kitchen Porter, and Laundry Attendant, roles that involve support tasks within kitchen and hospitality environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Portland
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Dishwashers working in Portland.
- Visit the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries for information on state labor laws and regulations affecting employment.
- Consult the Oregon Department of Revenue for state tax requirements and filing guidelines.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources and information.