Dishwasher Salary in Santa Clara, CA
Dishwashers in Santa Clara, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.66 per hour, which translates to about $786.40 per week, $3,407.73 per month, and $40,892.80 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Santa Clara is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding market and consistent need for these essential kitchen roles in the area.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Santa Clara, CA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Santa Clara can vary with experience and employer type. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.22 | $648.80 | $2,792.53 | $33,507.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.66 | $786.40 | $3,407.73 | $40,892.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.83 | $953.20 | $4,132.80 | $49,465.60 |
Do Dishwashers in Santa Clara Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their work is behind-the-scenes and involves cleaning and maintaining kitchenware. Their income is usually limited to their hourly wage or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Santa Clara vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.35 per hour, equating to about $31,928 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Santa Clara earn a higher hourly wage and yearly salary, approximately $19.66 per hour and $40,892.80 annually, which may be due to the higher cost of living and stronger demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clara for Dishwashers
Nearby areas show slight variations in pay for Dishwashers:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- North Santa Clara: $21.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to North Santa Clara might find better pay compared to Downtown or Santa Clara itself.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Santa Clara?
Several factors affect a Dishwasher's salary in Santa Clara:
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers tend to receive higher wages due to proficiency and reliability in fast-paced kitchen environments.
- Skills: Additional skills like knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels typically commands higher wages than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts may offer higher pay or shift differentials.
- Local Cost of Living: Santa Clara's elevated living costs contribute to generally higher wages compared to many other regions.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Santa Clara
Becoming a Dishwasher in Santa Clara can be streamlined by following these steps:
- Complete Culinary Arts Programs: Training such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mission College provides foundational kitchen skills and knowledge in safety and sanitation, crucial for Dishwashers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Courses like the Food Safety Certification Course at Santa Clara Adult Education, ServSafe Food Handler Certification, or the California Food Handler Card are valuable credentials that employers look for.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions and volunteering in food service environments help build relevant skills.
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic: Dishwashers need to be reliable, efficient, and maintain high cleanliness standards to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Santa Clara
Santa Clara's foodservice industry includes many prominent employers seeking qualified Dishwashers, such as:
- Marriott International
- Din Tai Fung
- Bon Appétit
Establishments That Dishwashers in Santa Clara Work At
Dishwashers typically work across various establishment types including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and competitive wages relative to the local market.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Pay may be lower but the environment is fast-paced.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages with potential for benefits.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Seasonal or event-based work that sometimes provides higher hourly rates.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary levels and employment stability.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clara for Dishwashers
If you're interested in similar careers, consider roles related to dishwashing in hospitality.
These include Kitchen Porter, Line Cook, and Cook, all of which are integral roles in food service with varied responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Santa Clara
It's important for Dishwashers to understand labor laws and tax obligations at federal, state, and local levels.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive labor information.
- California's state regulations and workplace standards can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For local city-specific regulations and resources, consult the City of Santa Clara's official website.