Dishwasher Salary in Tacoma, WA
Dishwashers in Tacoma, WA, earn approximately $18.69 per hour, which translates to about $747.60 per week, $3,239.60 per month, and $38,875.20 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Tacoma is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality and food service industries.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Tacoma can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,779.00 | $33,324.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.69 | $747.60 | $3,239.60 | $38,875.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.76 | $870.40 | $3,763.47 | $45,260.80 |
Do Dishwashers in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips as their duties mainly involve cleaning and maintaining kitchenware and equipment, without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is usually limited to wages alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $15.45 per hour, which translates to approximately $32,136 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Tacoma earn significantly more, with an hourly wage of about $18.69 and a yearly salary near $38,875.
This reflects the cost of living and rising demand for hospitality workers in Tacoma, WA.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Dishwashers
When examining nearby areas, the salaries for Dishwashers vary slightly:
- Downtown Tacoma: $19.50 per hour
- North End: $20.00 per hour
Dishwashers working in North End tend to have the highest earning potential, followed closely by Downtown Tacoma.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Tacoma?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Dishwasher in Tacoma:
- Experience and Skills: Dishwashers with more experience or additional kitchen skills may command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering companies often pays better than smaller casual dining spots.
- Shift and Working Hours: Night shifts, weekends, or holiday work may come with premium pay.
- Local Demand and Labor Market: Tacoma's growing hospitality sector supports higher wages due to increased need for reliable staff.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Tacoma
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Tacoma involves several steps:
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: A Food Handler's Permit is mandatory in Washington State, ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- Consider Additional Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Bates Technical College provide useful kitchen and safety skills that improve employment prospects.
- Explore Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Tacoma Community College offers insight into restaurant operations and customer service, valuable even for support roles.
- Look Into ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized food safety certification is often required or preferred by employers.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions in kitchens or food service establishments help build practical skills and opportunities for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Tacoma
Some of the major employers in Tacoma known for hiring Dishwashers include:
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Applebee's
- The Cheesecake Factory
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Dishwashers in Tacoma Work At
Dishwashers typically find work in a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Frequently employ Dishwashers and offer entry-level wages with some possibility of tips in other roles.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Offer similar opportunities, often with fast-paced environments requiring multitasking Dishwashers.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may pay higher wages and offer benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Catering Companies: Sometimes provide seasonal work and variable pay depending on event size.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary levels and job stability for Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Dishwashers
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these similar career options:
These include Fry Cook, Prep Cook, and Kitchen Porter positions, which share similar work environments and duties in professional kitchens.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Tacoma
Dishwashers working in Tacoma should be aware of federal and state labor regulations as well as local rules:
- For federal labor laws, wage standards, and employment regulations visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries offers resources specific to state labor laws and workplace safety.
- Local government information and resources for businesses and workers are available through the City of Tacoma official website.