Dishwasher in Santa Maria, CA
Dishwashers in Santa Maria, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Santa Maria is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in this role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Santa Maria, CA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Santa Maria can vary based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.50 | $820.00 | $3,533.33 | $42,640.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Santa Maria Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind the scenes and does not involve direct customer interactions. Their earnings are mostly based on hourly wages.
Dishwasher Salary in Santa Maria vs. National Average
Across the United States, Dishwashers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Santa Maria earn a higher hourly wage at $16.50 and yearly salary of about $34,320, reflecting a more competitive labor market and cost of living in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Maria for Dishwashers
Nearby areas with higher Dishwasher wages include:
- Entrada Este: $18.00 per hour
- Blosser Southwest: $17.00 per hour
Dishwashers working in these neighborhoods may find slightly better compensation compared to Santa Maria itself.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Santa Maria?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Santa Maria is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers can command higher wages due to efficiency and reliability.
- Skills and Work Ethic: Ability to manage workload, maintain sanitation standards, and work quickly can impact pay.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants, hotels, and catering services often pay more than fast-food or casual dining establishments.
- Shift Timing: Evening or night shifts might offer differential pay compared to day shifts.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Santa Maria
Becoming a Dishwasher in Santa Maria involves a few straightforward steps that can lead to steady employment in the hospitality industry.
Gain basic culinary knowledge and sanitation skills through programs like Allan Hancock College Culinary Arts Program or the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Adult Education Culinary Program. These provide a strong foundation for kitchen roles.
Acquiring essential certifications such as the California Food Handler Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification ensures compliance with health codes and improves employability.
Obtain on-the-job experience by applying to entry-level positions in restaurants or hotels; often, Dishwashers are trained in-house.
Commit to punctuality and teamwork—qualities highly valued by employers in fast-paced kitchen environments.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Santa Maria
Some of the notable employers actively hiring Dishwashers in Santa Maria include:
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
Establishments That Dishwashers in Santa Maria Work At
Dishwashers typically find employment across various types of establishments in Santa Maria, such as:
- Fast casual restaurants: Often have high turnover and consistent demand for dishwashers but offer moderate wages.
- Casual dining chains: Provide stable scheduling and higher wages relative to fast casual.
- Fine dining restaurants and hotels: Usually pay higher wages due to the complexity and pace of service, sometimes including benefits.
- Event venues and catering companies: Offer seasonal work with potential for higher earnings during busy periods.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary, with upscale venues paying the most and fast casual offering entry-level wages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Maria for Dishwashers
Dishwashers interested in advancing their careers might consider related roles in the hospitality industry that utilize similar skills.
These include Busser, Prep Cook, and Fry Cook positions, which offer opportunities for career growth and skill development within kitchen and food service operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Santa Maria
Dishwashers should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that govern their employment in California.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed information on state labor laws and regulations, including wage and hour laws.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services, tax withholding, and unemployment insurance.