Sommelier Salary in Montgomery, AL
Sommelier in Montgomery, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $27.73 per hour, which translates to about $1,109.20 per week, $4,806.53 per month, and $57,678.40 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Montgomery is growing modestly at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for careers in wine expertise and hospitality services in the region.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Montgomery, AL?
The salary of a Sommelier in Montgomery varies depending on experience and establishment. Below is a range that illustrates the typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 Montgomery Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often receive tips along with their base salary, especially when working in fine dining or upscale establishments. They can earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, significantly boosting overall income depending on the volume of service and establishment prestige.
Sommelier Salary in Montgomery vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $58,240 per year.
In comparison, Sommeliers in Montgomery earn slightly below the national hourly average at $27.73 per hour, but their yearly salary of $57,678.40 is very close to the national norm. This suggests the Montgomery market is competitive and aligned with broader U.S. trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Montgomery for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pays for Sommeliers, including:
- Downtown Montgomery: $28.50 per hour
- East Montgomery: $27.80 per hour
Those seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in Downtown Montgomery, where pay rates tend to be slightly higher than the city average.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Montgomery?
The salary of a Sommelier in Montgomery is influenced by several factors including:
- Experience and Certifications: Advanced certifications like the Court of Master Sommeliers Certification or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Certification can substantially increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or luxury hotels usually commands higher salaries compared to casual dining venues.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine pairing and customer service can impact tips and base salary.
- Geographic Location: Proximity to premium wine markets and affluent clientele in certain neighborhoods can affect pay scales.
How To Become a Sommelier in Montgomery
To build a career as a Sommelier in Montgomery, consider the following steps:
- Education: Programs like the Auburn University Culinary Science Program provide excellent training in food and beverage management including wine studies.
- Hospitality Courses: The Alabama Community College System Hospitality Management Program includes courses on beverage management and sommelier training, ideal for entry-level candidates.
- Certification: Pursue formal certifications such as the globally recognized Court of Master Sommeliers Certification or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Certification.
- Gain Experience: Work in restaurants or wine shops to develop practical knowledge and customer service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Montgomery
Some of the top employers actively looking for Sommeliers in Montgomery include:
- The Capital City Club
- Vintage Year
- Central
- The House Restaurant
Establishments That Sommeliers in Montgomery Work At
Sommeliers in Montgomery typically work at a variety of establishments including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These provide higher salaries and greater tipping opportunities due to clientele expectations and wine service standards.
- Luxury Hotels and Clubs: Often offer competitive pay and benefits, employing Sommeliers to enhance guest experience.
- Specialty Wine Shops and Retailers: Sommeliers may work in sales and advisory roles here with varying salary ranges.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally offer lower pay, but still provide valuable experience for entry-level Sommeliers.
The type of establishment significantly affects earning potential, with fine dining venues offering some of the best pay and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Montgomery for Sommeliers
If you are considering careers related to Sommelier roles, here are some options worth exploring:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, which share skills in beverage expertise and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommelier in Montgomery
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Sommeliers working in Montgomery:
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for guidelines on wages, overtime, and employment rights.
- The State of Alabama's Department of Labor website offers specific information on state labor regulations affecting Sommeliers.
- For local ordinances and employment resources, visit the City of Montgomery's official website.