Sommelier Salary in Durham, NC
Sommeliers in Durham, NC earn approximately $31.70 per hour, which equates to about $1,268.00 per week, $5,494.67 per month, and $65,936.00 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in this city is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for wine and beverage experts in Durham, NC.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Sommelier in Durham varies based on experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.00 | $960.00 | $4,160.00 | $49,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,960.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Durham Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn additional income from tips, especially in high-end and fine dining establishments. On average, a Sommelier in Durham can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary significantly.
Sommelier Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers make around $21.88 per hour and approximately $45,510.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Durham earn significantly more, with an hourly rate of $31.70 and an annual salary of $65,936.00. This difference reflects Durham's growing wine culture and upscale dining scene that values sommelier expertise.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Sommeliers, including:
- Downtown Durham: $32.50 per hour
- Brightleaf Square: $31.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Durham enjoy the highest pay, while Brightleaf Square offers attractive salaries as well.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors can affect the earnings of a Sommelier in Durham, including:
- Experience and Certification: Certified Sommeliers, especially those with advanced qualifications, command higher salaries.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine regions, food pairing, and customer service enhances earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Sommeliers at fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels typically earn more than those at casual venues.
- Reputation of Employer: Working for prestigious or high-profile establishments can boost a Sommelier’s income.
- Location: Proximity to affluent neighborhoods or tourist areas may impact pay scales.
How To Become a Sommelier in Durham
To pursue a career as a Sommelier in Durham, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Formal Wine Education: Enroll in wine education programs like those offered by the American Wine School in Durham or take Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 1-3 courses available nearby at Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, NC.
- Acquire Sommelier Certification: Aim for certifications such as Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines for advanced qualification.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Work in restaurants, wine bars, or wineries to develop practical skills in wine service and customer interaction.
- Stay Updated on Trends: Keep current with wine industry developments to offer knowledgeable service.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Durham
Some prominent employers looking for Sommeliers in Durham include:
- The Oak House at Durham
- Martin & Associates
- The Angus Barn
Establishments That Sommeliers in Durham Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment in diverse settings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest salaries due to premium wine selections and customer expectations.
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts: Employ Sommeliers to enhance guest experiences and private events.
- Upscale Wine Bars: Provide opportunities for Sommeliers to showcase expertise, often with tip income.
- Vineyards and Wineries: Roles might include guiding tours and tastings, which influences compensation.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with more upscale venues tending to pay better.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Sommeliers
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Sommelier, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender — related roles involving beverage knowledge and service with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Durham
It’s important for Sommeliers to stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations in Durham and beyond.
- You can visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- For state-specific resources, the North Carolina state government website provides details on labor laws affecting workers.
- The Durham city government website offers local regulations and information useful for employees and employers alike.