Sommelier Salary in Lakewood, CO
Sommeliers in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $25.73 per hour, which translates to about $1,029.20 per week, $4,459.87 per month, and $53,518.40 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in the wine and hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Sommelier in Lakewood can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.43 | $857.20 | $3,710.53 | $44,526.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.73 | $1,029.20 | $4,459.87 | $53,518.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.89 | $1,235.60 | $5,328.40 | $63,507.20 |
Do Sommeliers in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn tips in addition to their base salary, especially when working in high-end restaurants or wine bars. They can earn an extra estimated $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sommelier Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $25.28 per hour, which equates to about $52,582.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Lakewood earn slightly more, with an hourly wage of approximately $25.73 and an annual salary of about $53,518.40.
This slight increase can be linked to Colorado's growing wine culture and the demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality sector around Lakewood.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher salaries for Sommeliers:
- Belmar: $27.50 per hour
- Green Mountain: $28.00 per hour
Sommeliers working in Belmar and Green Mountain generally enjoy better pay, possibly due to the presence of upscale dining and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Lakewood?
Several key factors impact how much a Sommelier can earn in Lakewood:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers, particularly those with certifications, command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in wine knowledge, tasting, and pairing enhances earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or luxury hotels often pays better than casual dining settings.
- Reputation and Networking: Well-connected Sommeliers with strong industry visibility may receive better offers.
- Tips and Service Quality: Tip earnings can significantly supplement base pay, especially in venues with generous clientele.
How To Become a Sommelier in Lakewood
Starting a career as a Sommelier in Lakewood involves a combination of education, certifications, and hands-on experience.
Some of the recognized educational and certification opportunities in the Denver Metro area include:
- Wine Education Institute: Located in nearby Westminster, this institute provides professional wine and spirits education, including courses and certifications such as WSET, SWE, and the Wine Scholar Guild.
- Court of Master Sommeliers: This highly respected organization offers a four-stage certification process, including Introductory, Certified, Advanced, and Master Sommelier levels, focusing on wine knowledge and service skills.
- Certified Sommelier: This certification is offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers and emphasizes in-depth wine knowledge and service proficiency.
- Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW): Offered by the Society of Wine Educators, this certification is designed to improve wine knowledge and professional development.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Lakewood
Several notable employers in Lakewood actively seek skilled Sommeliers, including:
- The Ritz-Carlton
- Sage Hospitality
- East West Hospitality
- Sweet Basil
Establishments That Sommeliers in Lakewood Work At
Sommeliers in Lakewood typically find employment in various hospitality establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer the highest salaries and significant tipping opportunities.
- Luxury Hotels: Typically provide solid base pay with tips and benefits, making them desirable employers.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: While sometimes offering lower base pay, these establishments may offer good tip earnings.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These usually pay less but can be a starting point for those new to the profession.
The type of establishment directly influences salary and overall earnings for Sommeliers, with upscale settings offering the best financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Sommeliers
If you are interested in careers related to being a Sommelier, consider the following similar roles that involve complementary skills in hospitality and beverage service.
These roles include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, each sharing aspects of the wine and beverage service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Lakewood
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Sommeliers to ensure fair work conditions and proper financial management.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Colorado provides resources on state labor laws and employment regulations on colorado.gov.