Dishwashers
Clean dishes, kitchen, food preparation equipment, or utensils.
SOC: 35-9021.00
Common Job Titles
Dish Machine Operator (DMO)DishwasherKitchen StewardSteward
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate commercial dishwashers and glasswashers in high-volume food service settings, ensuring proper temperature and sanitation standards.Developing
- Hands-onHandle dishes, utensils, and food preparation equipment efficiently under time pressure during peak service periods.Developing
- KnowledgeClassify soiled items by type and cleaning requirements to determine appropriate washing methods and equipment settings.Developing
- Hands-onPerform inspection of washed items for cleanliness and damage following health and safety protocols to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.Developing
- KnowledgeApply time management techniques to prioritize workflow coordinating with kitchen staff to maintain steady supply of clean equipment.Developing
- Hands-onExecute routine maintenance and cleaning of dishwashing equipment using appropriate cleaning chemicals and safety procedures.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate knowledge of proper chemical usage and dilution ratios for sanitization and cleaning in accordance with health department regulations.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in team communication and coordination responding to requests from kitchen and service staff during busy shifts.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate temperature monitoring devices and test strips to verify proper sanitization temperatures in dishwashing systems.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate waste management systems including trash compactors maintaining kitchen cleanliness and adhering to waste disposal protocols.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Dishwashers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
471,670
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $23,960 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $41,600 |
| Workers on average earn | $33,220 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Administration and Management3.8/5
- English Language3.3/5
- Public Safety and Security3.1/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.0/5
- Education and Training2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
FacebookMicrosoft Windows
Tools & Equipment
Automatic dishwashing systemsCleaning mopsCommercial dishwashersCommercial glasswashersDigital handheld thermometersDish drying racksDish-cleaning brushesDrain racks