Sommelier Salary in Greensboro, NC
Sommelier positions in Greensboro, NC, 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 Greensboro is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook in the hospitality and fine dining industry within the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Greensboro, NC?
The salary of a Sommelier in Greensboro varies based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of average earnings depending on skill 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 | $6,586.67 | $79,040.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Greensboro Earn Tips?
Sommeliers typically do earn tips as part of their compensation, often receiving an extra $10 per hour in tips or more. This can significantly supplement their base salary, especially in fine dining establishments where personalized wine service is valued.
Sommelier Salary in Greensboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $31.00 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $64,480.00 per year.
In Greensboro, Sommeliers earn about the same as the national average with an hourly wage of $31.00 and an annual salary of $64,480.00, making it a competitive position in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greensboro for Sommeliers
Nearby neighborhoods and districts offer slightly different salary ranges for Sommeliers:
- Downtown Greensboro: $32.00 per hour
- Friendly Center: $33.00 per hour
These areas tend to have more upscale dining options, potentially resulting in higher wages for Sommeliers.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Greensboro?
Several factors can influence how much a Sommelier earns in Greensboro:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers or those with advanced knowledge often command higher pay.
- Credentials and Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET Level 3 Award in Wines may increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and luxury hotels typically pay higher wages compared to casual dining venues.
- Location and Demand: Areas with a booming restaurant scene or affluent clientele tend to offer better salary packages.
- Additional Skills: Proficiency in customer service, wine education, and sales may further boost income.
How To Become a Sommelier in Greensboro
Starting a career as a Sommelier requires a blend of education, certification, and experience:
- Enroll in Structured Programs: Consider programs such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) at Johnson & Wales University, which offers globally recognized wine education and certifications.
- Pursue Certification Courses: The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) courses at Surry Community College provide a tiered certification path culminating in the prestigious Master Sommelier title.
- Obtain Industry-Recognized Credentials: Certifications like the Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers or the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines demonstrate proficiency and increase job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants, wine shops, or vineyards helps develop skills in tasting, pairing, and customer engagement.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Greensboro
Some of the notable establishments currently hiring Sommeliers in Greensboro include:
- Print Works Bistro
- Green Valley Grill
- Undercurrent Restaurant
Establishments That Sommeliers in Greensboro Work At
Sommeliers generally find roles in several types of venues:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer the most opportunities for higher salaries due to the specialized wine service required.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Often employ Sommeliers for their upscale dining areas and wine cellars, which can offer premium pay.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Shops: Provide chances to apply wine knowledge directly with customers in a less formal environment.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While less common, some offer Sommelier services which may come with a different pay scale.
The prestige and customer base of the establishment largely determine the seniority and salary of Sommeliers employed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greensboro for Sommeliers
Those interested in positions similar to Sommelier might also consider related roles in hospitality that leverage knowledge of food and beverages.
The above include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which share overlapping skills with Sommeliers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Greensboro
Understanding labor regulations and tax responsibilities is important for Sommeliers working in Greensboro.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for guidance on worker rights, wage standards, and overtime.
- The North Carolina state government website offers resources on local labor laws, tax regulations, and employment standards.