Pot Washer

Career Guide

A Pot Washer keeps a kitchen running smoothly by cleaning pots, pans, and kitchen tools quickly and safely. The role focuses on cleanliness, speed, and teamwork so cooks can keep preparing food without delays.

Browse All Roles

Key Responsibilities

Wash pots, pans, and large kitchen tools
Operate dishwashing equipment safely
Sort and store clean cookware and utensils
Keep the dish area clean and organized
Handle hot water and cleaning chemicals safely
Remove food waste and manage trash and recycling
Support basic kitchen cleaning tasks during slow periods
Follow hygiene and food safety rules
Restock cleaning supplies and report low inventory
Communicate with kitchen staff about urgent needs

Top Skills for Success

Reliability

Time Management

Attention to Detail

Teamwork

Communication

Stamina

Safe Lifting

Sanitation Standards

Chemical Safety

Dishwashing Equipment Operation

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Dishwasher Kitchen Porter Prep Cook Line Cook Kitchen Assistant

Transition Opportunities

Catering Assistant Food Service Worker

Restaurant Shift Lead

Kitchen Supervisor Stewarding Supervisor

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Food Safety BasicsKnife SafetyKitchen Workflow AwarenessInventory AwarenessConflict Management

Development SuggestionsAsk for clear station standards, learn the kitchen’s cleaning checklist, and request cross-training during slow shifts. A short food safety course can help you move into prep work and increase earning potential.

Market Intelligence Report

Pot Washer is part of the Kitchen Operations category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

See the market intelligence report

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUS: $12 to $16 per hour

Mid LevelUS: $16 to $19 per hour

Senior LevelUS: $19 to $24 per hour

Growth Trend

Steady demand, with frequent openings in restaurants, hotels, healthcare dining, and catering due to ongoing turnover and seasonal needs.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

MarriottHiltonHyattDarden RestaurantsCompass GroupSodexoAramarkCheesecake FactoryIHOPOlive Garden

Industry Sectors

RestaurantsHotelsCateringHealthcare DiningSchool DiningCorporate CafeteriasEvent VenuesCruise Lines

Recommended Next Steps

Learn the kitchen’s cleaning checklist and hit consistent quality and speed targets

Ask to be trained on different dish stations and equipment

Take a basic food safety course to strengthen hiring options

Build a track record of punctuality and reliability for better shifts

Request cross-training in prep tasks such as washing produce and basic portioning

Update your resume with measurable results such as speed, consistency, and attendance