olive garden dishwasher job salary

Olive Garden Dishwasher Job Salary: How Much Can You Make?

By Brian HarrisNovember 28, 2025

Ever wondered about the compensation for a dishwasher job at Olive Garden? As one of the most popular Italian-American restaurant chains, Olive Garden offers a range of job opportunities, with the dishwasher position being one of the most crucial. Let's delve into the salary details, factors affecting it, and what you can expect from this role.

Before we dive into the specifics, it's essential to understand that salaries can vary significantly based on location, experience, and the specific Olive Garden branch. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual wage for dishwashers was $24,280 in May 2020, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $18,360, and the highest 10 percent earning more than $32,580.

Olive Garden Dishwasher Job Description

At Olive Garden, dishwashers are responsible for cleaning and sanitizing kitchen equipment, dishes, and utensils. They also maintain a clean and organized work environment. The role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure during peak hours.

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Dishwashers at Olive Garden typically work full-time or part-time, with schedules that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The role offers opportunities for growth, with many employees advancing to other kitchen or management positions over time.

Hourly Wage and Salary Range

According to Glassdoor and Indeed, the average hourly wage for a dishwasher at Olive Garden ranges from $10 to $14. This translates to an approximate annual salary range of $20,800 to $29,120, based on a full-time work schedule of 40 hours per week.

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Here's a breakdown of the salary range based on experience, as reported by Indeed:

Entry-level: $20,800 - $24,000 per year
Mid-career: $24,000 - $27,000 per year
Experienced: $27,000 - $29,120 per year

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors can influence the salary for a dishwasher position at Olive Garden:

Location: Salaries tend to be higher in urban areas and states with a higher cost of living.
Experience: Dishwashers with more experience may earn higher wages.
Job title: Some Olive Garden locations may use different job titles for dishwashers, such as "Utility Worker" or "Kitchen Steward," which may come with slightly higher pay.
Performance and tenure: Employees who demonstrate strong performance and remain with the company may see incremental increases in their pay over time.

Benefits and Perks of Working at Olive Garden

While the salary is an essential aspect, it's crucial to consider the benefits and perks that come with working at Olive Garden. The company offers a range of benefits to eligible employees, including:

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Health and wellness benefits, such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as wellness programs and resources.

Retirement savings plans, including a 401(k) plan with company match.

Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

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Employee discounts on meals and merchandise.

Opportunities for career growth and advancement within the company.

Training and development programs to help employees enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Tips for Negotiating Your Salary

When negotiating your salary for a dishwasher position at Olive Garden, consider the following tips:

Research industry standards and local market rates for dishwasher salaries to ensure you have a solid understanding of the range.

Highlight your unique skills, experience, and qualifications that set you apart from other candidates.

Be prepared to discuss your long-term career goals and how the dishwasher position can serve as a stepping stone for your professional growth.

Focus on the value you can bring to the team and the restaurant, rather than solely on the salary. Discussing other aspects of the compensation package, such as benefits and perks, can also be beneficial.

In the dynamic world of hospitality, the dishwasher role at Olive Garden is more than just a job – it's an opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to a successful team. By understanding the salary range, factors affecting it, and the benefits that come with the position, you can make an informed decision about your career and negotiate a compensation package that works for you.