Understanding the Role: A Comprehensive Guide to a Dishwasher Job
We love to eat out at restaurants and have a nice time with family and friends, just catching up and enjoying life. But do we ever wonder what it takes to keep these places sparkling, our dishes clean, and our meals tasty?
Even though this seems like an easy job to many, you need a set of skills to be good at it. In today’s article, we will explore how much dishwashers make, where to look for work, what qualifications employers are looking for, and more.
Stay tuned and learn more about the dishwasher job description.
What Skills Do You Need to Become a Dishwasher?
To become a dishwasher, you don't need a formal education or a lot of experience, but there are certain skills you need to have. Some of them are:
Dishwashing techniques: You need to know how to use dishwashers and how to wash different types of dishes and kitchen equipment.
Understanding of sanitation practices: Since food is prepared in the kitchen, you need to make sure everything is as clean as it can be. You need to be able to follow food safety regulations and proper sanitation practices.
Physical Strength: Working as a dishwasher requires standing for long periods and a lot of physical activity. You need to be in shape if you want to keep up with the pace of this job.
You also may need to carry heavy objects, so make sure you hit the gym before applying for this position.
Time management: In this line of work, you need to work fast and juggle different tasks within your workday. That’s why you need to be able to adapt to your surroundings and have good time management skills.
Attention to detail: Since all dishes need to be clean and sparkling, you need to be able to pay attention to the details. You don’t want to leave any small stains behind.
Good personal hygiene: A good skill to have for this occupation is good personal hygiene. You need to keep everything clean, as well as yourself.
Dishwasher’s Duties
So, what are the dishwasher’s duties? Here’s what type of work you can expect in this profession:
1. Washing Dishes
As a dishwasher, your main job is to make sure the dishes are clean. You either need to use your hands or a dishwasher. You may need to wash the dishes by hand if they are really dirty or delicate.
2. Sorting the Dishes
After washing, you’ll sort and stack the clean dishes so the kitchen staff can easily grab what they need. This helps keep the kitchen organized and running.
3. Cleaning
As a dishwasher, you also have some cleaning responsibilities. Apart from cleaning the dishes and your equipment, you may need to mop the floors, clean spills, and take out the trash.
4. Assisting in the Kitchen
The kitchen is one big team, and sometimes you may need to help with meal prep or small tasks the others don’t have time for (especially when it gets busy).
Dishwasher Salaries
Indeed says that dishwashers make around $15.1 per hour in America. Of course, the salary can vary based on location, the type of establishment, and your experience. Some restaurants also give dishwashers a part of the tips. per hour in America. Of course, the salary can vary based on location, the type of establishment, and your experience. Some restaurants also give dishwashers a part of the tips.
Bigger restaurants and hotels may offer higher wages than smaller dining places.
Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays usually pays more, so if money is tight for you, you can consider one of these options.
What Kind of Qualifications Are Employers Looking For?
You might be wondering: What qualifications do you need to get a job as a dishwasher? Here are a few:
1. Highschool Diploma or Equivalent
You don’t need formal education, but most restaurants require you to have a high school diploma. According to research done by Zippia, 69.87% of dishwashers have a high school diploma, and 9% have a bachelor’s degree.
You don’t need a certification, but taking up a course or taking some small steps to invest in yourself can help you stand out when you are looking for a job. Some certifications you could get are the EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification, the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, and the Certified Professional - Food Safety.
2. Experience
The good news is that you don’t need experience to get started with this position. Try to avoid lying about it, because no matter how easy the job may seem to you, your lack of experience could show if you get hired.
3. A Well-Written Resume
And the last thing you need to land any job is a good resume. Add some skills that we listed and any relevant experience. You can find a lot of free templates online for writing a good dishwasher resume.
Where to Find Jobs?
Dishwashers mostly work in restaurants, but you can also find these jobs in hospitals, hotels, colleges and universities, religious organizations, and more. Here are a few ideas on how to land a job:
You can contact staffing companies for dishwashers like DishwasherHero to help you find work.
You can search through Indeed.
You can go on Craigslist.
You can search different company websites. A lot of restaurants, hotels, and cafes post job openings on their own websites.
You can visit local restaurants, cafes, and hotels in your area.
Check the Jobs section on Facebook, since a lot of local businesses post openings there.
Go to LinkedIn’s job search.
Finally, you can ask friends, family, or acquaintances if they know of any openings. Word of mouth can be a powerful tool when it comes to job search.
A Few Final Tips
If you do end up getting that job, here are a few tips that will help you keep it:
1. Keep Things Organized
Starting with your area, try to keep it clean and leave it clean every day. Show up on time, and make sure you sort dishes, utensils, and pots and pans before washing. This helps you clean more efficiently.
2. Move at a Steady Pace
Don’t start your shift by working too quickly. You’ll get tired and won’t be able to keep up. Try to find a pace that works for you and stick to it.
3. Be a Team Player
Communication is key in any line of work. Offer to help your colleagues if it’s a busy shift and you don’t have a lot of work and ask for help if you need it. Being easy to work with is an underrated skill and can help your career a ton.
4. Develop Good Habits
Have a positive attitude, even when things get tough. A good attitude can make work more enjoyable for you and the whole team. Developing good habits will serve you in the long run, no matter where life takes you.
The Bottom Line
Becoming a dishwasher is a good choice if you want to gain some experience in the kitchen. There is currently a demand for dishwashers, and you do have room to learn more and grow.
Just remember that being clean is the most important thing, as is following sanitation protocols. Be a team player, write an awesome resume, and show up as your best self, and you will get this job in no time. We are rooting for you!