Dishwasher Salary in Wilmington, DE
Dishwashers in Wilmington, DE, in 2025, earn approximately $16.51 per hour, which amounts to about $660.40 per week, $2,861.73 per month, and $34,340.80 per year.
The demand for Dishwashers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook with increasing opportunities for this essential hospitality role.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Make in Wilmington, DE?
The salary for a Dishwasher in Wilmington varies by experience, but here is an overview of typical earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,346.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Dishwashers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Dishwashers typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on cleaning and sanitation behind the scenes with limited customer interaction. Their income primarily comes from wages or salary.
Dishwasher Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Dishwashers earn about $15.45 per hour, which equates to roughly $32,136 per year.
Compared to the national average, Dishwashers in Wilmington earn a slightly higher hourly wage at $16.51 per hour and an annual salary of $34,340.80, reflecting local economic conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Dishwashers
Looking at nearby areas, Dishwasher salaries differ as follows:
- Middletown: $17.00 per hour
- Newark: $16.59 per hour
Working in Middletown can offer Dishwashers higher pay compared to Wilmington, while Newark salaries are similar to Wilmington's rates.
What Influences a Dishwasher’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors can impact how much a Dishwasher earns in Wilmington, DE:
- Experience Level: More experienced Dishwashers may command higher wages due to proficiency and efficiency in their duties.
- Type of Establishment: Dishwashers working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or large catering companies often earn more than those in casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night or weekend shifts may come with differential pay, increasing overall earnings.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of kitchen sanitation and safety practices, sometimes demonstrated through certifications, can boost pay prospects.
How To Become a Dishwasher in Wilmington, DE
Starting a career as a Dishwasher in Wilmington involves a few straightforward steps to build necessary skills and qualifications:
- Gain Basic Kitchen Experience: Many Dishwashers start with little to no prior food service experience, learning on the job the essential cleaning and kitchen support tasks.
- Complete Local Vocational Training: Programs such as those offered by Delaware Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and Wilmington Job Corps Center provide practical skills related to kitchen operations and hospitality.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and often required by employers to ensure safe work practices.
- Understand Workplace Safety: Earning the OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification can further promote a safe cleaning environment and improve job readiness.
Top Employers Hiring Dishwashers in Wilmington
Several well-known employers in Wilmington frequently hire Dishwashers, including:
- Friendly's
- McDonald's
- Applebee's
Establishments That Dishwashers in Wilmington Work At
Dishwashers in Wilmington find work in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These are common employers of Dishwashers and typically offer stable hours with moderate pay.
- Fast Food Chains: Popular fast food venues provide entry-level positions with consistent schedules but often lower wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may pay higher wages due to scale and standards, requiring Dishwashers to work with diverse kitchen operations.
- Catering Companies: Working for caterers can provide varied experiences and sometimes higher hourly rates depending on event complexity.
The type of establishment influences pay rates, work environment, and growth opportunities for Dishwashers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Dishwashers
If you are interested in roles similar to Dishwasher, here are some closely related positions to consider that share kitchen or hospitality responsibilities:
These include Busser, Kitchen Porter, and Laundry Attendant roles, which involve supporting food service operations and maintaining cleanliness and organization.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Dishwashers in Wilmington
Dishwashers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations that affect their work and income. Useful resources include:
- Visit the federal Department of Labor website for information on nationwide employment laws and worker rights.
- The Delaware Department of Labor provides specific state-level guidance on labor laws and workforce resources.
- The official City of Wilmington website offers local government information that can affect employment and regulations.