Restaurant Dishwasher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of the restaurant industry, the role of the dishwasher is more crucial than ever.

As the culinary world evolves, the need for efficient, thorough, and reliable individuals to manage our kitchen cleanliness grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a restaurant dishwasher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the behind-the-scenes of restaurant operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable restaurant dishwasher job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Restaurant Dishwasher Duties and Responsibilities

Restaurant Dishwashers perform a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the food service environment.

They are responsible for washing and sanitizing dishes, cutlery, and other kitchen tools and areas.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Scrape, rinse, and load dishes and utensils into dish machine
• Wash and sanitize all pans, utensils, and dishes
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain dish machine
• Unload dishes and utensils from dish machine and organize them properly
• Empty trash containers regularly
• Maintain clean dish area and kitchen by sweeping and mopping
• Assist with kitchen prep work as needed
• Ensure the availability of clean dishes by bussing tables, washing dishes, pots, pans, and flatware, and resetting dining areas
• Assist in receiving and stocking supplies/products
• Adhere to health and safety standards to ensure the restaurant is clean and safe

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and reliable dishwasher to join our restaurant team.

Your responsibilities will include maintaining cleanliness and sanitization of dishes, glassware, tableware, cooking utensils, and kitchen area.

Our ideal candidate is focused, efficient, and committed to safe and sanitary kitchen practices.

Ultimately, the role of the dishwasher is to ensure a clean and pleasant dining environment for our patrons.

 

Responsibilities

• Ensure all dishes are spotless and free of leftover food particles
• Handle and store all kitchenware and appliances properly
• Set up and operate the dishwashing machine
• Hand-wash fragile items and large kitchen equipment
• Maintain the dishwashing machine, to include cleaning and troubleshooting
• Check soap and rinse aid levels on a regular basis
• Keep the dishwashing area clean and free of clutter
• Ensure a safe and hygienic working environment at all times
• Assist with other duties as needed

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a dishwasher or in a similar role is a plus
• Understanding of hygiene and sanitation regulations
• Physical stamina and high energy levels
• Ability to follow instructions and help with various tasks, as needed
• Good communication and organizational skills
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred

 

Benefits

• Competitive wages
• Meal discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Potential for advancement within the company
• Work in a positive and dynamic environment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Restaurant Dishwasher
• Work Environment: Fast-paced kitchen environment. Physical activities such as lifting and carrying may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Kitchen Manager or Restaurant Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $10.00 minimum to $15.00 maximum per hour
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time/Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Restaurant Dishwasher Do?

A Restaurant Dishwasher typically works as part of the kitchen staff in restaurants, cafes, or other food service establishments.

Their primary responsibility is to maintain the cleanliness of the restaurant’s dishes, utensils, glasses, pots, pans and other kitchen equipment.

They do this by operating commercial dishwashing machines or washing dishes by hand as required.

Restaurant Dishwashers also ensure that the dishwashing area remains clean, organized, and safe by adhering to sanitation and safety standards.

They may also be tasked with scrubbing, rinsing, and sanitizing cutting boards, kitchen tools, and work surfaces.

In addition, a Restaurant Dishwasher may help with other tasks such as unloading deliveries, stocking supplies, removing trash, and assisting the kitchen staff as needed.

Their role plays a critical part in maintaining the smooth operation of the restaurant by ensuring that the kitchen staff have clean, sanitary tools and dishes at all times.

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Qualifications and Skills

A proficient restaurant dishwasher should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Ability to follow health and safety guidelines to ensure a clean and safe working environment
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and handle heavy dishware and equipment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, handling multiple tasks at once
• Strong organizational skills to sort and stack clean dishware and utensils in an orderly manner
• Attention to detail to ensure that all items are thoroughly cleaned and ready for use
• Teamwork skills to coordinate with other staff members and maintain a smooth flow of kitchen operations
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues with the dishwasher or other kitchen equipment
• Good time management skills to ensure tasks are completed in a timely and efficient manner
• Basic maintenance skills to perform minor repairs on dishwashing equipment

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Experience Requirements

For entry-level dishwashing positions, experience is typically not required.

Many individuals start their career in the restaurant industry as a dishwasher, learning the basics of kitchen operations and hygiene regulations on the job.

However, some restaurants may prefer candidates who have at least six months to a year of experience in a similar role, particularly in high-volume or fine dining establishments where efficiency and familiarity with kitchen systems are important.

Candidates with more than 1 to 2 years of experience as a dishwasher may have additional responsibilities such as training new staff or assisting with food preparation tasks.

Those with more than 3 to 5 years of experience in the role may be prepared to advance to kitchen porter or prep cook positions, where they can apply their knowledge of kitchen operations on a larger scale.

Prior experience as a dishwasher is often valuable in these roles, as it provides a strong foundation in kitchen hygiene and teamwork.

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Education and Training Requirements

Restaurant Dishwashers typically require little formal education.

Most establishments hire dishwashers with a high school diploma or equivalent.

While no specific training programs exist for dishwashers, on-the-job training is usually provided by the employer.

This training often includes proper use of cleaning chemicals and equipment, sanitation standards, and workplace safety practices.

While not required, some dishwashers may choose to take food handling and safety courses.

These can be beneficial in restaurant environments and may make a dishwasher more attractive to potential employers.

Certain certifications such as a Food Handler’s Permit may be required in some states or by certain employers.

This requires passing a test on basic food safety practices.

Dishwashers often learn additional skills on the job, and with experience and additional training, they may move up to other positions within the restaurant.

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Restaurant Dishwasher is $11.62 (USD) per hour.

The actual earnings can greatly vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the restaurant’s business scale.

 

Restaurant Dishwasher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a restaurant dishwasher need?

A restaurant dishwasher should be efficient, able to handle a fast-paced environment, and possess a strong sense of responsibility and reliability.

Physical stamina is also important as they have to stand for long periods and may need to lift heavy items.

They should also have an understanding of hygiene and sanitation regulations.

 

Do restaurant dishwashers require any specific education or certification?

Restaurant dishwashers typically don’t require any specific educational background or certification.

However, they must be aware of and adhere to the sanitation and safety standards set by the restaurant and local health department.

On-the-job training is often provided to understand the use of different cleaning chemicals and machinery.

 

What should you look for in a restaurant dishwasher’s resume?

When reviewing a restaurant dishwasher’s resume, look for previous experience in a similar role or environment.

Any certifications in food safety or handling could be a plus.

Candidates with a record of reliability, punctuality, and a willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, can be considered as valuable additions to the team.

 

What qualities make a good restaurant dishwasher?

A good restaurant dishwasher is hardworking, reliable, and can work well under pressure during peak hours.

They should have excellent attention to detail to ensure all tableware and kitchenware is cleaned and sanitized properly.

They should also be a team player, ready to help other staff members as needed to keep the restaurant running smoothly.

 

Is it difficult to hire a restaurant dishwasher?

While the role of a restaurant dishwasher is often considered entry-level, finding reliable and hardworking individuals can sometimes be a challenge.

It’s important to create a supportive work environment and offer competitive wages to attract and retain quality staff.

Offering opportunities for growth within the restaurant can also be an attractive proposition for potential hires.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a closer look at what it truly entails to be a restaurant dishwasher.

And guess what?

It’s not just about washing dishes.

It’s about ensuring a smooth and efficient dining experience, one clean plate at a time.

With our comprehensive restaurant dishwasher job description template and real-world examples, you’re now ready to get started.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every clean dish contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s create that experience. Together.

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