Sommelier Salary in Greeley, CO
Sommeliers in Greeley, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Greeley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for wine and beverage expertise within hospitality establishments.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Greeley, CO?
The salary of a Sommelier in Greeley varies depending on their level of experience and the type of establishment they work in. Below is a breakdown of typical salaries across different 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 Greeley Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often work in fine dining and upscale establishments where tipping is customary. They can earn an additional $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant's prestige and volume of customers, significantly supplementing their base salary.
Sommelier Salary in Greeley vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn on average about $31.00 per hour, or approximately $64,480.00 per year.
Sommeliers in Greeley, CO, earn comparable wages, with a mid-level average hourly wage of $31.00 and annual pay consistent with the national average. This parity reflects a balanced market for skilled wine professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greeley for Sommeliers
If you are looking for higher-paying opportunities near Greeley, consider these areas:
- Downtown Greeley: $32.00 per hour
- University District: $33.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods might provide a slight salary edge due to the concentration of upscale dining and university clientele.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Greeley?
Several factors influence the earning potential of Sommeliers in Greeley:
- Experience: More experienced Sommeliers with proven expertise can command higher salaries.
- Professional Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Sommelier or WSET Level 3 improve credibility and pay scale.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels typically offer better compensation than casual venues.
- Skill Set: Knowledge of wine varieties, regions, and pairing skills enhance value.
- Networking and Reputation: Sommeliers with a strong local reputation and connections may receive higher tips and salary opportunities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Greeley
Starting a career as a Sommelier in Greeley involves several important steps:
- Education: Programs like Front Range Community College Culinary Arts Program, which include courses in wine studies and hospitality management, provide a solid foundation.
- Advanced Training: The University of Northern Colorado’s Hospitality Management Program features classes on beverage management and wine appreciation beneficial for aspiring Sommeliers.
- Certifications: Attaining certifications such as the Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines establishes industry qualifications.
- Hands-On Experience: Gaining experience in restaurants, wineries, or beverage consulting is critical.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Greeley
Some of the most prominent employers hiring Sommeliers in Greeley include:
- The Tavern at St. Michael's Square
- Gourmet Grub Scratch Kitchen
- Pellegrini Ristorante
Establishments That Sommeliers in Greeley Work At
Sommeliers in Greeley typically work in a variety of hospitality venues:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest wages and tips due to sophistication and clientele.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Featuring extensive wine selections, offering solid salaries and benefits.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: Usually offer moderate wages but excellent learning opportunities.
- Casual Eateries: May provide entry-level experience, though salaries and tips tend to be lower.
The prestige and scale of the establishment significantly affect salary and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greeley for Sommeliers
If you're exploring related careers to that of a Sommelier, consider these options:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager, roles that share similar skill sets related to beverage service and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Greeley
Sommeliers should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- For details on Colorado’s state labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Colorado government website.
- For information on federal labor laws and workplace standards, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.