A sommelier's role is multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities from managing the wine program to enhancing the dining experience through expert wine recommendations. They are expected to have an in-depth knowledge of wines and use this expertise to guide guests in selecting wines that best complement their meals.
Creating a compelling sommelier job description requires a clear understanding of the role's unique responsibilities and qualifications. The job description should be comprehensive, covering all aspects of the role, including the job title and summary, responsibilities and duties, qualifications and skills, work environment and physical demands, compensation and benefits, application instructions, and information about the restaurant. It should be tailored to the specific needs of the restaurant and reflect the unique culture and values of the establishment. The job description should also be clear, concise, and engaging, capturing the attention of potential candidates and providing them with a clear understanding of what the role entails and what is expected of them.
Sommelier Responsibilities and Duties
Here are the most typical responsibilities and duties employers list on job description:
- Managing the restaurant’s wine program, including purchasing, inventory management, and pricing.
- Guiding guests in selecting wines that complement their meals.
- Engaging in wine-related discussions with guests and managing the flow of service in the dining room.
- Assisting in curating each guest's dining experience.
- Continually expanding knowledge of wines, with a focus on wines from specific regions.
- Building relationships with vendors, winemakers, industry professionals, and locals.
- Providing input on wine pairings and bottle programs to complement the menu offerings and price points.
- Implementing wine training for both new and existing staff members.
- Staying informed about local, national, and international wine competitions, awards, and industry trends.
- Understanding local and international wine laws and regulations for compliance.
Sommelier Qualifications and Skills
Here are the most common qualifications that employees look for in this role's job description:
- An associate degree or equivalent, with a focus on wine or a related field.
- A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in relevant roles, such as Front of House or full-service dining room operations.
- Deep understanding of wine, especially from regions such as Napa, California, and Burgundy.
- Comfort and confidence in speaking directly with individuals and leading group discussions.
- Understanding of basic financial calculations and controls.
- Detail-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset.
- Ability to work independently within established procedures.
- Certifications from CMS (Court of Master Sommeliers) or WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) for advanced roles.
- Knowledge of international wine regions and classic cocktails.
- Physical ability to carry up to 30lbs.
Benefits Offered for Sommeliers
Here are the benefits that employers typically provide in this role's job description:
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off (PTO) and sick pay.
- Restaurant or company-wide discounts.
- Reimbursement for examination fees with sommelier accrediting organizations and other educational fees.
- Career advancement opportunities.
- Competitive compensation, including base pay, cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a 401(k) plan with a match, and complimentary meals or stays at associated properties for some positions.
Sommelier Job Description Template
Job Title: Sommelier
Job Summary: The Sommelier will be responsible for managing our wine program, guiding guests in selecting wines, and enhancing the dining experience through expert wine recommendations.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Manage the wine program, including purchasing, inventory management, and pricing.
- Guide guests in selecting wines that complement their meals.
- Engage in wine-related discussions with guests and manage the flow of service in the dining room.
- Assist in curating each guest's dining experience.
- Continually expand knowledge of wines, with a focus on wines from specific regions.
Qualifications and Skills:
- An associate degree or equivalent, with a focus on wine or a related field.
- A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in relevant roles, such as Front of House or full-service dining room operations.
- Deep understanding of wine, especially from regions such as Napa, California, and Burgundy.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive salary, including base pay, cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off (PTO) and sick pay.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and cover letter to [email address].
About the Restaurant: [Insert information about the restaurant, including its history, mission, and values.]
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