Sommelier Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Sommeliers in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $22.59 per hour, which translates to about $903.60 per week, $3,915.60 per month, and $46,987.20 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Fort Lee shows a positive growth rate of around 5% per year, indicating an expanding interest and employment opportunities in the fine dining and beverage service industries within the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
The salary of a Sommelier in Fort Lee can vary depending on experience and venue, but generally here is an overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.70 | $708.00 | $3,058.00 | $36,816.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.59 | $903.60 | $3,915.60 | $46,987.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.82 | $1,152.80 | $4,977.33 | $59,945.60 |
Do Sommeliers in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Sommeliers typically do earn tips as part of their compensation, given their direct interaction with guests in upscale dining settings. They can make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, which can add significantly to their base salary depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sommelier Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $19.50 per hour, or about $40,560 annually.
Comparatively, Sommeliers in Fort Lee earn a higher wage, with an average of $22.59 per hour and a yearly salary of $46,987.20. This suggests that Fort Lee provides above-average pay for professionals in this specialty hospitality role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer the following hourly pays for Sommeliers:
- Area 1: $23.50 per hour
- Area 2: $24.00 per hour
These surrounding regions offer slightly higher wages, reflecting competitive markets closely tied to New York City and upscale hospitality venues.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Fort Lee?
Several factors can impact how much a Sommelier earns in Fort Lee:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Sommeliers with extensive wine knowledge and certifications often command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in wine pairing, purchasing, and inventory, along with certifications like Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET, enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury hotels typically pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Location and Clientele: SOMMs working in areas with affluent customer bases often see increased tips and salaries.
How To Become a Sommelier in Fort Lee
To pursue a Sommelier career in Fort Lee, you can follow these steps:
- Gain Wine Education: Enroll in certification programs such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level One courses offered by local institutions like the NJ Wine School in Westfield, NJ.
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Consider certifications from recognized organizations like the Court of Master Sommeliers, which offers progressive levels from Introductory to Master Sommelier.
- Acquire Experience: Work in wine service roles within restaurants to build practical skills and customer interaction capabilities.
- Explore Culinary Training: Institutions like the International Culinary Center in New York provide courses that cover sommelier training and wine service knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Fort Lee
Fort Lee hosts several renowned restaurants and venues actively seeking skilled Sommeliers:
- Blue Hill at Stone Barns
- The Modern
- Crown Shy
Establishments That Sommeliers in Fort Lee Work At
Sommeliers commonly work at various types of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries and opportunities for tips due to their upscale clientele.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Employ sommeliers to manage wine selections and pairings for guests, often with competitive compensation.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Venues: May provide commissions or tips in addition to base pay.
- Casual Dining: Usually pays less but can be a good starting place for experience.
The establishment's prestige and clientele directly influence salary levels and earning opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Sommeliers
If you are interested in similar hospitality careers related to Sommeliers, consider the following roles accompanied by their typical salary data.
These include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender—positions related through the focus on beverage service and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Fort Lee
Sommeliers should be aware of their rights and responsibilities under various labor laws and tax requirements:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor standards, wage regulations, and employment statistics.
- Check the Official New Jersey state website for state-specific labor laws, employment regulations, and workforce resources.