Dishwasher Salary in San Francisco, CA
Dishwashers in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.03 per hour, which translates to about $841.20 per week, $3,645.20 per month, and $43,742.40 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in San Francisco is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in San Francisco varies by experience level, with wages increasing as skills and expertise develop. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.62 | $984.80 | $4,260.53 | $51,169.60 |
Do Dishwashers in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes in kitchen operations. Their compensation typically consists of hourly wages without additional tip income.
Dishwasher Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of about $15.50 per hour, which equals approximately $32,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in San Francisco earn significantly more, at roughly $21.03 per hour and $43,742.40 annually, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand for labor in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Dishwashers
Nearby neighborhoods within the San Francisco area offer varied pay rates for Dishwashers:
- Financial District: $22.50 per hour
- Mission Bay: $21.80 per hour
Dishwashers working in the Financial District tend to earn more, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining establishments and corporate cafeterias.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors impact the salary a Dishwasher can expect to earn in San Francisco:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Dishwashers often receive higher pay rates and may qualify for supervisory roles.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than casual dining spots or fast food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Dishwashers working evening or overnight shifts might earn differential pay.
- Certifications and Training: Having food safety certifications can make candidates more attractive and potentially increase wages.
- Workload and Responsibilities: Roles that include additional duties beyond dishwashing may offer better compensation.
How To Become a Dishwasher in San Francisco
Becoming a Dishwasher in San Francisco involves several straightforward but important steps:
- Gain Basic Kitchen Knowledge: Enrolling in foundational courses such as those offered by City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts Program and San Francisco Cooking School can help acquire valuable kitchen skills, including sanitization and dishwashing techniques.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: The California Food Handler Card is a required certification for food service workers in the state, ensuring compliance with food safety standards.
- Consider Advanced Food Safety Credentials: The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is preferred by many employers for kitchen staff.
- Build Experience: Entry-level hospitality positions or internships can provide relevant work experience and open doors to full-time Dishwasher roles.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in San Francisco
Several major employers in San Francisco regularly hire Dishwashers, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Whole Foods Market
- Compass Group
Establishments That Dishwashers in San Francisco Work At
Dishwashers typically find employment in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer steady hours but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Typically pay slightly less but may offer more flexible work schedules.
- Hotels and Resorts: These locations may provide higher pay and opportunities for advancement.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher wages are possible, reflecting the premium service level.
The establishment type greatly influences earnings, with formal dining venues generally offering better compensation compared to fast food or casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Dishwashers
If you’re interested in careers similar to Dishwashing, consider these related hospitality roles that provide alternative but comparable opportunities:
These careers include Kitchen Porter, Busser, and Laundry Attendant, all of which involve key support roles within the hospitality and food service sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in San Francisco
Dishwashers should familiarize themselves with both state and local labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper employment conditions.
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive information on workplace laws and employee rights.
- The California Employment Development Department provides helpful resources on employment benefits, taxes, and unemployment services.
- For local regulations and additional worker protections, visit the City and County of San Francisco website.