What does a dishwasher do?
A dishwasher picks up and cleans dishes, pots, glassware and cutlery in restaurants, cafés, hotels or other hospitality establishments that serve food and drinks. Working largely behind the scenes, dishwashers don’t usually have direct contact with customers and guests.
Dishwashers often work during food service hours so that the facility always has clean kitchenware to use. In addition to filling and emptying dishwashing machines and cleaning glassware by hand, a dishwasher can also be required to clean kitchen appliances and work surfaces to assist the kitchen and front-of-house teams.
A dishwasher also puts away dry dishes and utensils and has a keen sense of hygiene to avoid potential contamination.
Dishwasher skills and qualifications
To succeed as a dishwasher, reliability, attention to hygiene and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are essential. Employers value individuals who can follow food safety standards, handle cleaning equipment effectively and support the kitchen team with a positive attitude. While formal qualifications are not usually required, understanding workplace health and safety and having previous experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment are highly advantageous.
A good dishwasher will possess the following skills and aptitudes to succeed in the role:
- ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- good hygiene awareness and willingness to comply with food safety standards
- awareness of potential hazards, e.g. when handling knives
- ability to be on their feet for extended periods of time
- ability to load and unload dishwashing machines and lift and move dishes as required
- willingness to wear a uniform if required.
Dishwasher experience requirements
The dishwasher role is an entry-level position that doesn’t require any particular work experience. Most dishwashers train on the job, and they may progress to a kitchen hand, food runner or barista down the track.
It can be an advantage to hire a dishwasher who has undergone some training in hospitality or a course in safe food handling because this means they are aware of the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and what is expected of them in a busy hospitality environment.
Dishwasher education and training requirements
A dishwasher is not usually expected to have any formal qualifications. Although most dishwashers will have completed Year 10 schooling, this is an ideal entry-level position and a great first role for young people seeking first practical experience or wanting to earn money alongside their studies.
A completed training course in food safety or another hospitality-related field is, of course, a plus, but not required to work as a dishwasher.
Dishwasher salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a dishwasher is $59,361 per year. Wage rate or salary level may vary according to the employer and location, and the candidate’s experience.
Job description samples for similar positions
If you’re not sure if you need a dishwasher or a similar worker, take a look at these related roles to see the differences and make the right choice for your establishment:
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