Dishwasher Salary in Tuscaloosa, AL
Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $14.87 per hour, which translates to about $594.80 per week, $2,577.47 per month, and $30,929.60 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for support staff in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Tuscaloosa, AL?
The salary of a Dishwasher in Tuscaloosa varies depending on experience and the place of employment, but here is a breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.03 | $441.20 | $1,911.73 | $22,942.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.87 | $594.80 | $2,577.47 | $30,929.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.06 | $802.40 | $3,479.73 | $41,724.80 |
Do Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa Earn Tips?
Dishwashers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily behind-the-scenes and does not involve direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from their base salary or hourly wages.
Dishwasher Salary in Tuscaloosa vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn an average of around $14.87 per hour, translating to about $30,929.60 per year.
Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa earn very close to the national average at approximately $14.87 per hour and $30,929.60 annually, indicating the local market is in line with broader economic expectations for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tuscaloosa for Dishwashers
Nearby areas offer some variance in Dishwasher pay:
- Downtown Tuscaloosa: $15.50 per hour
- Northport: $14.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Tuscaloosa typically offers the highest wage potential due to increased demand and more dining establishments.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Tuscaloosa?
Several factors influence how much a Dishwasher can earn in Tuscaloosa:
- Experience: Dishwashers with more years in the industry may receive higher pay due to efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants, hospitals, or university dining services often pay more than fast food or casual spots.
- Skill and Speed: Ability to manage busy kitchen times and operate dishwashing machines efficiently impacts pay.
- Shift Timings: Night or weekend shifts can come with premium pay supplements.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Tuscaloosa
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Tuscaloosa involves several straightforward steps:
- Basic Education: A high school diploma is often preferred but not always required.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can greatly improve job prospects by demonstrating knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Training Programs: Consider enrolling in local culinary or hospitality courses such as the Culinary Arts Program at Shelton State Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at The University of Alabama to understand kitchen operations better.
- Alcohol Service Awareness: For Dishwashers in establishments serving alcohol, participating in the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program can be advantageous.
- On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles helps develop the practical skills needed for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa
Some of the major employers looking for Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa include:
- The University of Alabama Dining Services
- DCH Regional Medical Center
- Bryant Conference Center
Establishments That Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa Work At
Dishwashers are employed across a range of establishments in Tuscaloosa, such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Typically provide steady hours but tend to offer lower wages compared to other sectors.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Often entry points with flexible shifts but lower pay scales.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals like DCH Regional Medical Center offer more consistent pay and benefits.
- University Dining Halls: The University of Alabama Dining Services offers opportunities with more stable hours and sometimes better pay.
- Conference Centers and Hotels: These establishments may pay higher rates due to larger-scale operations and special event needs.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on a Dishwasher’s earnings and job stability in Tuscaloosa.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tuscaloosa for Dishwashers
If you are interested in roles related to Dishwasher, here are some similar hospitality positions to consider that might offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Prep Cook, all of which require similar skill sets and provide pathways for career advancement in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa
Dishwashers in Tuscaloosa should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations applicable at the federal, state, and local levels.
- The U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) provides information on wage standards, overtime eligibility, and workplace safety.
- State-specific laws can be found on the Alabama Department of Labor (state website), including information on employment rights and state labor standards.
- Local ordinances and resources for workers in Tuscaloosa are available at the City of Tuscaloosa official website (local government).