What does a Dishwasher do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A dishwasher primarily works with cleaning and handling dishes, porcelain, cutlery, pots, and kitchen tools within restaurants, large kitchens, and other food service operations. The tasks often involve sorting dirty dishes, using industrial dishwashers, drying and returning utensils, and keeping the sink and work surfaces clean. The work takes place in a fast-paced environment where cooperation with kitchen and serving staff is crucial to maintaining flow in the kitchen. The environment can be noisy, humid, and sometimes stressful, especially during rush hours, but good hygiene and structure are important to ensure both comfort and safety.
Salary Development Over Time
The dishwasher profession has experienced steady wage increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,200 SEK per month, which increased to 26 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 27 900 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 11% over the three-year period. This trend reflects a general pattern within the restaurant and service industries, where increased demand for labor and improved collective agreements have contributed to higher wages. Regional differences exist, and employers may offer varying compensation based on experience, workplace, and sector. The wage increase also indicates a growing need for dishwashers, especially in larger cities where the restaurant industry is expanding.
Dishwasher Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 27 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 24,800 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 33,700 SEK/month (male, public sector)
- Hourly wage (average): 168 SEK
- Women earn: 27 600 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 28 300 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Wage levels may vary depending on location and employer.
Education and Qualifications
To work as a dishwasher, no formal education is usually required, as orientation and training are provided on-site. Some employers may require prior experience from restaurant or large kitchen environments, especially for employment at larger workplaces. Practical skills, accuracy, and good hygiene are central qualifications for success in the role.
- Formal education: No specific education required, but onboarding is provided on-site
- Internship/Trainee: Practical training at the workplace is common
- Prerequisites: Basic Swedish language skills and understanding of hygiene regulations
- Tips for choosing: Prior experience in a restaurant environment is advantageous
Many who work as dishwashers quickly gain insight into the daily routines of the restaurant industry. This makes the profession a common entry point for those who later want to develop into other roles, such as kitchen assistant or chef. Showing initiative and being flexible can therefore open new doors at the workplace.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Dishwashers are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to overtime pay, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Many employers offer meals during shifts, work clothing, and sometimes training in hygiene and safety. Pension and insurance coverage are also regulated by agreement, providing a basic security in employment.
Competition and Challenges
Competition for dishwasher positions varies by region and season, but there is generally a relatively high demand for labor within the profession. Challenges may include irregular working hours, physically monotonous tasks, and the need to maintain a high pace during stressful periods. Many work part-time or on temporary contracts, which can affect income and job security. At the same time, high staff turnover can create good opportunities for those who are flexible and able to quickly learn their tasks.
Tips for Aspiring Dishwashers
To succeed as a dishwasher, it is good to be resilient and able to work standing for long periods, as the tasks are often physically demanding. Good organizational skills and accuracy facilitate handling multiple tasks simultaneously and keeping work areas clean. Flexibility is an important trait since the pace can vary greatly during the day, especially during lunch and dinner service. Being cooperative and social makes it easier to integrate into the kitchen team and create a good atmosphere. Finally, stress tolerance and the ability to prioritize when workload is high are valuable, as is the willingness to learn new tasks and take responsibility, which employers appreciate.
Key Facts About Dishwashers
- Education level: No formal education required
- Work environment: Restaurants, large kitchens, and catering
- Employment type: Often part-time or temporary, sometimes full-time
- Demand: High, 123 job openings registered in the profession
- Special skills: Hygiene routines and efficiency
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After a few years of experience as a dishwasher, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as kitchen assistant, cold kitchen worker, or other positions within restaurant kitchens. Many employers prefer motivated employees to develop internally, especially if they demonstrate responsibility and initiative. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities remain significant within the profession of restaurant and kitchen assistants, and demand is expected to stay stable over the next five years. At the same time, the recruitment situation is characterized by many part-time positions, which can affect the possibility of full-time work. Those wishing to advance are encouraged to pursue further training or broaden their responsibilities at the workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dishwashers
- What does a Dishwasher earn?
- A dishwasher has an average salary of 27 900 SEK per month in Sweden.
- Are there differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 28 300 SEK while women earn 27 600 SEK, which is 98% of men's salary.
- What is the hourly wage for a dishwasher?
- The average hourly wage is 168 SEK for hourly workers.
- Is education required to work as a dishwasher?
- No, no formal education is required. Training usually occurs at the workplace.
- What are the employment types?
- Many positions are part-time or temporary, but full-time work also exists.
- What work environments are common for dishwashers?
- Dishwashers mainly work in restaurants, large kitchens, and catering operations.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Demand is high, and the Swedish Public Employment Service assesses that job opportunities will be plentiful in the coming years.
