I have noticed that bus boys are disappearing from restaurants. So thanks, at least in part, to increased costs imposed by government, dirty dishes are now being handled by the waiters and waitresses that handle your food.
My first restaurant gig was as a busboy. Second best job I ever had.
I was paid minimum wage+ a percentage of waitress tips.(they tipped me what THEY thought I was worth.)
busted my butt everyday, and in 3 months I had enough spare income to buy a NIB Mini-14 with extra mags and 1000 rounds.( right after Clinton’s assault weapon ban.)
After 30 years in the business, I know busboys are not necessary, but are a great help. Busboys are the first ones sent home on slow nights, and the first ones let go when times get tough.
Bottom line- make yourself indispensable.