Dishwasher Salary in Thornton, CO
Dishwashers in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market for individuals seeking roles in hospitality and food service industries.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Thornton can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,720.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Thornton Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes and not customer-facing. Their earnings come mostly from their hourly wages or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Thornton earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually.
This is reflective of regional cost of living and market demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer varying levels of pay for Dishwashers:
- Denver: $15.50 per hour
- Boulder: $17.60 per hour
Dishwashers working in Boulder can expect to earn more compared to Thornton and Denver, which may influence commuting or job choice decisions.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Thornton?
Several factors contribute to how much a Dishwasher can earn in Thornton:
- Experience: More experienced Dishwashers who are efficient and reliable tend to earn higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels may offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining settings.
- Work Hours: Those willing to work night shifts or weekends might receive shift differentials.
- Skills and Responsibilities: Additional tasks beyond washing dishes, such as kitchen prep assistance, can increase earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and demand for hospitality staff in Thornton also impact wages.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Thornton
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Thornton generally requires limited formal education but certain steps can improve job prospects:
- Gain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures adherence to health standards.
- Consider Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Certificate Program at Community College of Denver or the Food Service Management Program at Front Range Community College can provide foundational skills.
- Earn Certifications: Advanced certifications like the Certified Kitchen Cook (CKC) Certification may open doors to higher-level positions.
- Start with Entry-Level Positions: Many Dishwashers begin by working in fast casual or casual dining settings to build experience.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Thornton
Several well-known employers in Thornton actively seek Dishwashers:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Dishwashers in Thornton Work At
Dishwashers find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often entry-level positions with consistent scheduling but lower pay.
- Casual Dining: These establishments may pay more and offer tips sharing in some cases, but it's rare for Dishwashers.
- Hotels and Resorts: Jobs here can come with better pay and benefits due to higher customer service standards.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Seasonal and event-driven work that might offer higher hourly rates.
The type and scale of the establishment greatly influence the salary, with hotels and higher-end venues typically providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Dishwashers
If you are exploring careers related to Dishwashing, consider these roles, which share some responsibilities and offer varying salary ranges.
These include Cook, Prep Cook, and Kitchen Porter roles, which offer paths to advance within the kitchen environment.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Thornton
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Dishwashers in Thornton:
- Refer to the State of Colorado Official Website for details on minimum wage, overtime, and employment regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws that apply nationwide.