Umami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity.

Hojoko is where it all comes to life. A Japanese-inspired tavern fueled by loud music, high energy, and seriously good food. It’s where high-end technique meets low-key fun—wagyu cheeseburgers, spicy ramen, sake bombs—executed with the same precision and care as a fine dining kitchen. We take flavor seriously…everything else, not so much.

We’re looking for a Dishwasher who keeps the kitchen sharp, the flow moving, and the operation clean from the ground up.

THE GIG (AKA WHAT YOU’LL ACTUALLY BE DOING)

• Backbone-level ownership of the dish pit — when this space is locked in, the entire kitchen runs better
• Clean, organized, and service-ready execution across dishes, pans, tools, floors, stations, and waste areas
• Fast, focused workflow that turns dirty into spotless with consistency, pride, and attention to detail
• Careful organization of clean wares and proactive monitoring of machines and supplies so service never waits
• Calm, composed performance through heat, steam, and speed, jumping in for resets, stocking, and support when needed
• Reliable, proud presence every shift — showing up on time, working hard, and owning nights, weekends, and holidays when strong kitchens show up

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…

• You like staying busy and working with your hands
• You take pride in cleanliness, order, and doing things the right way
• You understand that great kitchens run on teamwork
• You can handle heat, movement, and fast pace without losing focus
• You show up reliable, ready, and willing to help wherever needed
• You bring good energy and a strong work ethic to every shift

LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS (IN A GOOD WAY)

This is a fast-paced kitchen fueled by movement, heat, music, and momentum, where you’re on your feet, working with knives, fire, and focus throughout each shift.

Yes — this is a hands-on role. You’ll be on your feet for long shifts, lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, reaching, and moving easily through tight spaces. A disciplined commitment to sanitation, safety, and cleanliness is part of the craft here, and we’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals in performing the essential functions of the role.

WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND

• Competitive hourly pay - because your work matters
• Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
• Growth that’s real (not just talked about)
• A team culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart

Hourly pay range - $17-$20 based on experience

EOE