Sommelier Salary in Hawthorne, CA
Sommelier jobs in Hawthorne, CA pay approximately $31.00 per hour, which amounts to around $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and an estimated $64,480.00 per year.
The job demand for Sommeliers is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the beverage and hospitality industry within Hawthorne and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Hawthorne, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Hawthorne varies by experience and expertise. Here's a detailed breakdown showing typical earnings by level of experience:
| 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 Hawthorne Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips, but the amount can vary widely depending on the establishment and clientele. They might earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips during busy shifts, supplementing their base salary, especially in upscale dining settings.
Sommelier Salary in Hawthorne, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn on average around $21.58 per hour, equaling approximately $44,886.40 annually.
In comparison, Sommeliers in Hawthorne earn a notably higher hourly wage of about $31.00, or roughly $64,480.00 per year, reflecting the local demand for skilled wine professionals and the cost of living factors in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hawthorne for Sommelier
Nearby cities also offer competitive pay for Sommeliers:
- Beverly Hills: $22.21 per hour
- Santa Monica: $20.85 per hour
While these surrounding cities pay slightly less on an hourly basis than Hawthorne, their luxury dining scenes may provide other perks or benefits.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Hawthorne?
Several key factors impact how much a Sommelier can earn in Hawthorne, CA:
- Experience and Certification: Certified Sommeliers or those with extensive wine knowledge and years of experience often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and fine dining venues typically pay more due to the level of expertise required.
- Skill Set: Skills in wine tasting, pairing, inventory management, and customer service can positively influence income.
- Reputation and Networking: A Sommelier recognized for exceptional knowledge or service can earn more through tips and higher base pay.
- Location: Areas with higher living costs or tourist traffic like Los Angeles County tend to offer better compensation.
How To Become a Sommelier in Hawthorne
To pursue a career as a Sommelier in Hawthorne, consider these important steps:
- Intensive Sommelier Training at ICE: The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles offers a comprehensive program covering wine knowledge and tasting of over 300 wines.
- Certified Sommelier by Court of Master Sommeliers: Achieving this certification involves rigorous exams and proves a high level of wine expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants, wine shops, or vineyards to gain hands-on knowledge of wine service and pairing.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Sommeliers work closely with guests, so strong communication and hospitality skills are essential.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Hawthorne
Popular establishments currently seeking Sommeliers in Hawthorne include:
- Jon & Vinny's
- République
- Alliance Hospitality Group
Establishments That Sommeliers in Hawthorne Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment across a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: High-end restaurants offer the highest salaries and opportunities for tip earnings.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These venues often provide stable employment with benefits but can vary in tip potential.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Stores: These might offer diverse experiences, sometimes with commissions on wine sales.
- Catering and Event Companies: Sommeliers may be hired for special events or tastings, earning per-event pay.
The type of establishment can greatly influence earning potential, with fine dining locations typically offering the most lucrative pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hawthorne for Sommelier
If you are considering careers related to being a Sommelier, here are some similar roles to explore:
These positions include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, which all align closely with the wine and beverage service industry and share similar skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommelier in Hawthorne
As a Sommelier in Hawthorne, CA, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities under relevant labor laws and tax regulations.
- For comprehensive California workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor provides federal labor laws and employment information useful to workers and employers nationwide.