Dishwasher Salary in Trenton, NJ
Dishwashers in Trenton, NJ, 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 Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects for those entering this entry-level hospitality position.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Trenton varies based on experience, but below is a typical breakdown of earnings across different levels of expertise.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Trenton Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips since their duties are mainly behind the scenes and do not involve direct customer interaction. Their income typically comes from hourly wages alone.
Dishwasher Salary in Trenton, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers make about $14.50 per hour and around $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national figure, Dishwashers in Trenton, NJ earn slightly less on average, at $13.90 per hour and about $28,912 per year.
This difference may be due to cost of living variations and local market factors affecting wage levels in the Trenton area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer slightly different wages for Dishwashers:
- Downtown Trenton: $15.50 per hour
- Chambersburg: $17.60 per hour
Dishwashers working in Chambersburg can expect better pay than those in other nearby localities, while Downtown Trenton also offers competitive wages within the region.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Trenton?
A variety of factors influence how much a Dishwasher earns in Trenton, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Dishwashers who are faster and more efficient tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Dishwashers in upscale restaurants or hotels generally earn more than those working at fast food outlets or casual diners.
- Shift and Hours: Dishwashers working night or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials or overtime pay, increasing earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications related to kitchen safety or food handling can sometimes boost pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage levels often reflect regional cost of living and labor market competitiveness.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Trenton
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Trenton can be straightforward but doing some preparation will increase job prospects and earning potential.
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as the Mercer County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable kitchen safety and sanitation training essential for a Dishwasher role.
- Enroll in Hospitality Courses: The Trenton Adult School Hospitality Training provides foundational knowledge about restaurant operations and service environment.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required for kitchen staff, including Dishwashers.
- Workplace Safety Training: Earning the OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification is beneficial for understanding safety protocols in a kitchen.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many entry-level positions require no prior experience, and on-the-job training helps build skills quickly.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Trenton
Some of the top employers in Trenton actively hiring Dishwashers include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Dishwashers in Trenton Work At
Dishwashers can typically be found working at a variety of food service establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Usually offer fast-paced work environments but generally provide lower hourly wages.
- Casual Dining: Often provide more stable hours and slightly higher pay compared to fast food.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: These settings may offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement due to larger scale operations.
- Catering Services: Require flexibility and can sometimes pay premium rates based on event demand.
The type of establishment significantly affects the pay scale and advancement possibilities for Dishwashers in Trenton.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Dishwashers
For those interested in related positions within hospitality, the following careers share similarities with Dishwasher roles:
These careers include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Fry Cook, which often align with kitchens’ support staff roles and offer potential for career growth within food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Trenton
Dishwashers should be aware of federal, state, and local labor regulations to ensure compliance and protection under the law.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website offers resources specific to state employment laws.
- Local guidelines and regulatory information can be accessed on the City of Trenton official site.