Sommelier Salary in High Point, NC
In High Point, NC, Sommeliers earn approximately $29.52 per hour, which adds up to about $1,180.80 per week, $5,116.80 per month, and $61,401.60 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in High Point is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy rise in opportunities and interest in wine expertise and hospitality services in the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in High Point, NC?
The salary of a Sommelier in High Point can vary based on experience, skill level, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.52 | $1,180.80 | $5,116.80 | $61,401.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.00 | $1,440.00 | $6,240.00 | $74,880.00 |
Do Sommeliers in High Point Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often have the opportunity to earn tips, especially in upscale dining establishments. They can make an extra approximately $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and clientele interaction, which can significantly augment their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in High Point vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $21.88 per hour, which is about $45,510.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in High Point earn more, with an average hourly rate of $29.52 and an annual income of $61,401.60. This reflects the local market's appreciation for highly skilled wine professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near High Point for Sommeliers
Within areas near High Point, Sommelier salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown High Point: $30.00 per hour
- Uptown High Point: $31.00 per hour
Those working in Uptown High Point typically earn slightly higher wages compared to Downtown due to different economic factors and establishment prestige.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in High Point?
Several factors play a significant role in determining a Sommelier’s salary in High Point:
- Experience and Expertise: More years on the job and deeper wine knowledge improve pay levels.
- Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Sommelier elevate earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants tend to offer better salaries compared to casual eateries.
- Service Skills: Strong customer relationship and upselling abilities are highly valued.
- Local Demand: The degree to which local establishments prioritize wine programs influences salary.
How To Become a Sommelier in High Point
To grow a successful career as a Sommelier in High Point, consider the following steps:
- WSET Level 1 Award in Wines: Offers a hands-on introduction to wine, focusing on types and styles. Available locally at 1618 West Seafood Grille, Greensboro, NC.
- WSET Level 2 Award in Wines: Builds on Level 1 with coverage on principal grape varieties and regions, also offered at 1618 West Seafood Grille, Greensboro, NC.
- Introductory Sommelier Certification: The first level offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, covering basics on wine knowledge, service, and tasting.
- Certified Sommelier: A more advanced certification involving theory, blind tasting, and service skills, recognized industry-wide.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in High Point
Several reputable establishments in High Point consistently look to hire Sommeliers, including:
- 1618 West Seafood Grille
- Blue Water Grille
- Southern Roots
Establishments That Sommeliers in High Point Work At
Sommeliers in High Point typically find work across a variety of dining venues:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments value detailed wine knowledge and often pay higher wages along with tip opportunities.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Sommelier positions here may include both wine service and management responsibilities.
- Wine Bars and Specialty Beverage Venues: Sometimes offering more dynamic, tip-driven income.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often hire sommeliers less frequently; salaries and tips tend to be lower in these settings.
The type of venue greatly impacts the salary and additional income opportunities for Sommeliers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in High Point for Sommeliers
If you're considering careers related to Sommelier, here are some similar roles in the hospitality industry worth exploring.
These roles include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, all of which share overlapping skills with Sommeliers around beverage expertise and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in High Point
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Sommeliers in High Point to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal employment and labor laws.
- For North Carolina-specific labor regulations, check out the official North Carolina government website which offers resources on wage laws, workplace safety, and tax information.