Porter Salary in Seattle, WA
Porters in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.50 per hour, translating to about $700.00 per week, $3,033.33 per month, and $36,400.00 per year.
The demand for Porters in Seattle is growing steadily at about 6% per year, signaling a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in this essential role across various industries in the city.
How Much Does a Porter Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Porter in Seattle can vary based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Porters in Seattle Earn Tips?
Porters typically do not earn tips as their roles involve behind-the-scenes support, primarily focused on maintenance and transportation tasks rather than direct customer service.
Porter Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Porters earn an average of about $15.00 per hour, amounting to roughly $31,200.00 per year.
In Seattle, Porters earn higher than the national average, with a typical wage of $17.50 per hour and an annual salary around $36,400.00. This difference reflects Seattle’s higher cost of living and demand for skilled Porters in local industries.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Porters
Nearby areas with higher pay for Porters include:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $19.00 per hour
Porters working in Capitol Hill and Downtown Seattle can expect better compensation compared to the city's average, reflecting the area's business density and cost factors.
What Influences a Porter’s Salary in Seattle?
Several key factors impact a Porter's earnings in Seattle:
- Experience: More experienced Porters typically earn higher wages due to skill proficiency and reliability.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional qualifications, including driver’s license and automotive certifications, can increase pay.
- Type of Employer: Porters working for larger dealerships or automotive service centers may earn more compared to smaller operations.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts may offer differential pay.
- Location within the City: Salary tends to be higher in central or affluent neighborhoods.
How To Become a Porter in Seattle
To pursue a career as a Porter in Seattle, consider these steps:
- Obtain a Valid Driver's License, essential for moving vehicles within service centers or dealerships.
- Enroll in automotive programs like the ones at Seattle Central College's Automotive Technology Program or North Seattle College's Automotive Technology Program to gain practical mechanical knowledge.
- Although not mandatory, earning an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification can enhance qualifications and career growth.
- Gain entry-level experience through internships or apprenticeships in automotive dealerships or service centers.
Top Employers Hiring Porters in Seattle
Seattle-based companies actively hiring Porters include:
- AutoNation
- Lithia Motors
- O'Reilly Auto Parts
Establishments That Porters in Seattle Work At
Porters in Seattle generally work at various types of establishments, including:
- Automotive Dealerships: Porters assist with vehicle maintenance and logistics; these jobs often offer steady hours with competitive pay.
- Service Centers and Garages: Work here involves assisting mechanics and managing vehicles, sometimes with opportunities for overtime.
- Hospitals and Hotels: In some cases, Porters help with logistics and cleaning, though salaries may be lower than automotive-related positions.
- Large Event Venues: Porters support setup and maintenance duties, with pay varying by the venue's scale.
The salary can differ depending on the type and size of the establishment, with automotive-related Porters generally receiving higher wages due to specialized demands.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Porters
If you are exploring careers related to being a Porter, here are some similar roles worth considering:
These careers include Laundry Attendant, Valet, and Porter itself, where skills and experience may overlap and lead to various career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Porters in Seattle
Porters in Seattle should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor regulations.
- The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries provides state-specific laws and protections.
- Local regulations in Seattle are detailed on the City of Seattle’s official website, which also offers resources for workers and employers.