Dishwasher Job Description
Job Summary
The Dishwasher plays a key role in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining the dishwashing station, cleaning and sanitizing kitchen equipment and tableware, and supporting the kitchen team by ensuring all tools and service-ware are available when needed.
A successful Dishwasher takes pride in cleanliness, works efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and contributes to a positive and supportive team culture.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Essential Responsibilities
Dishwashing & Sanitation
- Operate the commercial dishwashing machine to wash and sanitize dishes, glassware, silverware, cookware, and kitchen equipment
- Properly scrape, rinse, rack, and load items into the dish machine prior to washing
- Unload dish racks and organize items for efficient storage and kitchen use
- Wash pots, pans, sauté pans, soup pots, and other cookware by hand when necessary
- Monitor dish machine temperatures and chemical levels to ensure proper sanitation
- Clean and maintain the dishwashing station, including dismantling and cleaning dish machine components as required
Kitchen Support & Cleanliness
- Maintain a steady supply of clean dishes and kitchen tools for both the kitchen and dining room
- Keep the dish area, floors, and surrounding workspaces clean, safe, and organized throughout the shift
- Remove trash and recycling, break down cardboard boxes, and transport waste to designated disposal areas
- Maintain appropriate levels of cleaning supplies, detergents, and sanitizing chemicals
- Handle all dishware and equipment carefully to prevent breakage or loss
- Immediately report equipment issues, safety concerns, or maintenance needs to management
- Support the kitchen team with additional cleaning and organizational tasks as needed
Physical Requirements
The physical demands listed below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position.
- Ability to stand for the duration of a shift (up to 8–10 hours)
- Ability to work in hot, wet, humid, and noisy kitchen environments for extended periods
- Ability to lift and carry items up to 60 pounds, including racks of dishes, cookware, boxes, and trash bags
- Ability to push and pull racks, carts, trash cans, and cleaning equipment
- Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying throughout the shift
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Qualifications
- Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area
- Understanding of basic sanitation and food safety practices
- Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment while maintaining attention to detail
- Ability to lift up to 60 pounds safely
- Ability to obtain and maintain required food handler certification if required by local regulations
- Strong teamwork mindset and willingness to support other kitchen staff
- Professional and respectful interactions with all team members
- Strong time management and ability to prioritize tasks during busy service periods
- Commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and hospitality-focused workplace culture
Communication & Language Skills
- Ability to communicate effectively in English to understand instructions and safety procedures
- Ability to respond to questions and communicate clearly with team members and management