Dishwasher Jobs in the United States

Dishwasher Jobs Overview

Are you searching for an entry-level job that gets you good experience and allows you to work in high-energy settings? If so, consider dishwasher jobs. As a dishwasher, you'll clean dishes, utensils, and food preparation equipment, meaning that service can continue to run smoothly.

This job can take place in different environments. While most dishwashers work in restaurants, you can also apply for dishwasher jobs at healthcare facilities or colleges.

The pace of the job depends on where you work. If you work at a popular upscale restaurant, you might have more stringent demands. On the other hand, washing dishes at a golf course or hospital might lead to a more relaxed experience.

Dishwashers can work different hours. If you work at a restaurant, your hours should match the time when the restaurant is open. It's also possible for dishwashers to work on holidays and weekends.

Salary for Dishwasher Jobs

When it comes to dishwasher jobs, the salary you receive depends on where you work and the level of experience you have. The annual salary for dishwashers is around $29,560, which indicates an hourly wage of $14.21.

You can find more information about salaries for dishwasher jobs in your area by using Monster's salary calculator. Just input the job title and your location to find the median salary.

How to Find the Job That Fits You

The first step in applying for dishwasher jobs is finding ones that fit your situation and meet your needs. Every dishwasher job has unique requirements, which is why you should focus on defining your career goals as well as your strengths and weaknesses.

If you wish to work in a fine-dining establishment as a dishwasher, you'll need to contend with a more hectic work environment. On the other hand, dishwasher positions in restaurants have the potential to lead to better positions. For example, many cooks and chefs start out as dishwashers.

Before applying for a job, determine what you want out of it. Consider if the position allows for an optimal work-life balance and gives you opportunities for growth.

Review the Job Description and Consider Your Qualifications

When you're reviewing the dishwasher job description, make sure the responsibilities and requirements match your experience and skill level. Most dishwasher jobs don't require experience, which should make it easier for you to meet the necessary qualifications.

You should also consider any areas where you might require additional training or development. For example, the job description might include the following requirements:

• Must lift at least 50 pounds.
• Demonstrate a high stamina level to work on feet for lengthy periods.
• Meet safety standards when operating equipment.
• Have flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

While these requirements aren't that difficult to adhere to, you could focus on improving your fitness before you land a job. You could also learn about any regulations that might apply to the job.

Research the Company

Before submitting applications for dishwasher jobs, it's always a good idea to research any company you're thinking of applying to. Find out if their values and culture align with your own. Make sure you have a good idea about the type of environment you'll work in if you land the job.

Explore Opportunities for Growth

Investigate if the company you're applying to offers opportunities for professional development as you gain experience. If you wish to eventually earn a job as a chef or cook, working as a dishwasher is an effective method of gaining experience as you attend a culinary school or improve your skills. So, consider how the job fits with your long-term career goals.

How to Apply for Dishwasher Jobs

Now that you have one or more dishwasher positions to apply for, you can begin the application process. To start, review the job description to look for the key skills and qualifications that you should emphasize in your application.

Let's say that the dishwasher job you're applying for only requires applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. They might also list "one or more years of experience in the food-service industry" as something that's nice to have but not required. If you meet this qualification, highlight it in your application to improve your chances of getting the job.

During the application process, you might discover that some employers provide applicants with specific instructions to follow. Adhering closely to these instructions is necessary if you want the employer to consider your application.

Create an Effective Resume

Among the most crucial aspects of your application is the resume. Writing an effective resume is easier once you identify some resume keywords.

Resume keywords are words or phrases the employer regularly uses in the job listing. Potential keywords for dishwasher jobs include:

• operating commercial dishwashing equipment
• sanitizing dishes
• maintaining cleanliness
• working in a team-oriented environment
• having a strong work ethic
• demonstrating a positive attitude

When you're applying for dishwasher jobs, the best resume format is likely reverse chronological, which places your most recent experience first. If you don't have a considerable amount of experience, this format is effective.

You can place a professional summary at the top of your resume, which briefly lists your skills and experience. After detailing your work history in bullet points, mention your skills and education. Some of the skills and abilities that all dishwashers should have include:

• high-volume washing
• knowledge of commercial dishwashing equipment
• understanding of dining area cleanliness
• restocking skills
• safety and compliance knowledge
• quality control skills

If you need help writing your resume, look at our dishwasher resume sample. Also consider seeking Monster's Professional Resume Writing Services to create a strong resume.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter

A cover letter is a slightly less formal summary of your resume. It's essential that every cover letter you write is unique to the company and position you're applying for. Although you typically won’t need a cover letter when applying for a dishwasher position, including one could help you stand out from other applicants.

The header should include your name, phone number, and address. Highlight your experience, achievements, and skills in the three to four paragraphs you write. Include details that match the requirements in the job listing.

Consider the cover letter as an opportunity for you to make a good first impression with the hiring manager. Learn more about writing a good cover letter with our etiquette guide.

Submit Your Finalized Application

Now that you're done writing the application, it's time to submit it. You can easily apply by creating a free Monster account and uploading your application. Once you sign up, you can receive a free resume review and job recommendations.

Double-check the application for grammatical and spelling errors before you submit it. While reading through the resume and cover letter, make sure you don't leave out any important information.

How to Follow Up With an Employer

Once you send in your application, follow up after five to seven days. Waiting for at least five days gives the hiring manager time to review your application.

How You Should Follow Up

Following up with an employer involves writing a short message via email. Include the position you're applying for and your name in the subject line. State your interest in the position before mentioning some of your skills.

Who to Follow Up With

You should follow up with the hiring manager or general manager. You might find their contact info on the job listing or the company's website. If you're applying to a restaurant, you might need to call the restaurant directly to obtain this information.

Interviewing Tips

Once you get an interview, you should start preparing immediately. If you haven't done so, research the company by browsing its website. You should also take a few minutes to read through the job listing again.

Prepare by having a friend or family member ask some of the common questions you might be asked during the interview. Along with knowing the right answer to give, you should also pay attention to your body language to figure out how to respond confidently.

Interview Process

The interview process for dishwasher jobs is straightforward and usually involves one to two rounds of questions. While your first interview might take place over the phone or via video call, your final one should occur in person. The general manager or hiring manager should conduct your interviews.

Any interview for this job usually involves competency or behavioral questions. The types of questions you might encounter during an interview for a dishwasher job include:

• What skills do you bring to the team?
• Tell me about an instance when you had a disagreement with the kitchen manager and how you resolved it?
• What approach do you take to help train new dishwashers?
• What cleanliness principles do you maintain in a kitchen?
• Do you know how to clear tables efficiently?

Interview Tips

You can ace your interview by using one of many proven techniques. For example, the STAR method is a great way to answer behavioral questions. It allows you to give a much more in-depth answer that tells the interviewer exactly what they want to know.

Let's say that you receive a question about what you'll do if the commercial dishwasher for bowls and plates malfunctions. You can use your experience to mention a time when you dealt with a similar problem and how the actions you took resolved the issue.

You should demonstrate your experience and skills with examples. Make sure you answer every question with confidence and authenticity.

Follow Up

Once the interview is over, send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Spend a few brief sentences outlining your skills and interest in the job.

If you don't hear back within a week or so, give the hiring manager a call to inquire about the job. Try to mention something that you spoke about during the interview before re-stating your interest in the position.

What to Do When You Get an Offer

Great news! Before you review the offer, send a short thank-you email to the hiring manager. Make sure to mention if you need time to consider the offer.

There are several key details to look for in any job offer, which include the benefits, responsibilities, and salary. It's essential that you're 100% certain about these aspects of the offer before you accept it. If you have questions about one or more of the details, seek clarification from the hiring manager.

Base your final decision on your needs and priorities. Does the job offer fulfill your current needs and help you grow your career?

In the event that you wish to negotiate your salary or benefits, speak with the hiring manager. Approach this conversation in a professional manner. Read some of our salary negotiation tips to prepare.

Career Paths

If you're looking to have a career in the food service industry, starting out as a dishwasher is a good way to build your skills and qualifications. You can place the experience you gain from this position on your resume when applying for your next job.

There are many potential career paths for people who start out as dishwashers. You can eventually apply for a job as a server, busser, line cook, or prep cook. While working as a line cook, you might gain enough experience and skills to earn a job as a sous chef.

To determine which career path you should take, consider your talents and goals. If you wish to become a head chef, starting out as a dishwasher might make this possible.

Make sure you take advantage of any professional development or networking opportunities you have to gain a better foothold in the industry. A few certifications that every dishwasher can benefit from include OSHA Restaurant Safety, ServSafe Food Handler, and ServSafe Workplace.

Similar Occupations

Would you like to use your dishwasher skills in another occupation? Here are some ideas for similar jobs that might interest you:

• kitchen staff
• food service worker
• food service supervisor
• cashier