Dishwasher Salary in Salem, OR
Dishwashers in Salem, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $16.04 per hour, which translates to about $641.60 per week, $2,780.27 per month, and $33,363.20 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding need for support staff in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Salem, OR?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Salem varies depending on experience and employer, but the general earnings at different levels are shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.84 | $553.60 | $2,393.07 | $28,723.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.04 | $641.60 | $2,780.27 | $33,363.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.60 | $744.00 | $3,220.00 | $38,688.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Salem Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their duties are mostly behind the scenes, focused on cleaning and sanitation rather than customer interaction. Their earnings mostly come from wages rather than gratuities.
Dishwasher Salary in Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average hourly wage of around $16.04 per hour, with an annual salary near $33,363.20.
Dishwashers in Salem align closely with this national average, earning about $16.04 hourly and $33,363.20 per year. This suggests that Salem is competitive with the wider market for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salem for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied wages for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- South Salem: $16.80 per hour
Dishwashers working downtown can expect to earn more than those in South Salem, reflecting local economic differences.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Salem?
Several factors affect how much a Dishwasher can earn in Salem:
- Experience: More seasoned Dishwashers often command higher wages due to reliability and speed.
- Skills: Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and strong sanitation knowledge can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or large hotels might offer better pay compared to smaller diners or fast food outlets.
- Shift Timings: Night or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding food safety-related certifications could improve job prospects and wages.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Salem
Steps to pursue a career as a Dishwasher in Salem include:
- Obtain Required Permits: Acquiring a Food Handler's Permit is mandatory for all food service workers in Oregon.
- Enroll in Culinary Support Programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Chemeketa Community College provide essential kitchen safety and sanitation training relevant for Dishwashers.
- Gain Food Safety Knowledge: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and can enhance a Dishwasher's credentials.
- Start Entry-Level: Many Dishwashers begin working in kitchens to learn the ropes while gaining practical experience.
- Consider Further Education: Food Service Management at Chemeketa Community College offers education beneficial for those seeking advancement within the food service industry.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Salem
Widespread employers looking to hire Dishwashers in Salem include:
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Chick-fil-A
Establishments That Dishwashers in Salem Work At
Dishwashers are employed across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Often have steady shifts, but wages can be moderate.
- Fast Casual Chains: Positions might offer regular hours and standard pay rates.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: These places may pay higher wages due to the level of service expected and kitchen standards.
- Catering Services: Sometimes provide seasonal work with varying pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment can affect wages, with more upscale venues tending to compensate Dishwashers at higher rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salem for Dishwashers
For those interested in careers related to Dishwashing, consider exploring these similar roles that offer different responsibilities and potential for higher earnings:
These include Kitchen Porter, Line Cook, and Dishwasher positions, offering a progression of skills and responsibilities within the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Salem
Dishwashers should be aware of the following resources to understand their rights and obligations related to labor laws and taxes:
- On the official website of the state of Oregon, you can find important information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal labor laws and worker rights, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.