Sommelier Salary in Norfolk, VA
Sommelier professionals in Norfolk, VA, 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 Norfolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in job opportunities and market expansion for wine professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Norfolk, VA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Norfolk varies by experience, skill level, and employer type. Here's an overview of earnings at different stages of a Sommelier's career.
| 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 Norfolk Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often work in upscale dining establishments where they interact with customers and recommend wine selections. Many earn tips typically ranging from $10 to $20 per hour, which can significantly supplement their base salary.
Sommelier Salary in Norfolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $25.08 per hour and approximately $52,166.40 per year.
In comparison, Sommeliers in Norfolk earn more, with hourly wages near $31.00 and yearly earnings around $64,480.00. This higher pay reflects local demand, cost of living, and the presence of high-end dining establishments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norfolk, VA for Sommeliers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Sommeliers:
- Downtown: $32.00 per hour
- Ghent: $33.00 per hour
Working in Downtown or Ghent could provide marginally higher wages compared to other parts of Norfolk, often linked to the clientele and venue prestige.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Norfolk?
Several critical factors influence how much a Sommelier can earn in Norfolk:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with refined tasting abilities and wine knowledge command higher wages.
- Formal Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Sommelier status or WSET awards can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive wine bars tend to offer higher salaries than casual settings.
- Networking and Reputation: Sommeliers with strong industry contacts and public recognition can leverage better pay packages.
- Location within Norfolk: Areas with affluent clientele or tourist traffic might pay more.
How To Become a Sommelier in Norfolk
Launching a Sommelier career in Norfolk can be approached with several practical steps:
- Begin with Foundational Wine Education: The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 1 Award in Wines offered by the Virginia Wine Academy in Norfolk provides basic wine knowledge and tasting guidance.
- Attend Introductory Courses: The Court of Master Sommeliers Introductory Sommelier Course, periodically hosted in Norfolk, covers essential wine theory and service skills.
- Earn Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the Certified Sommelier credential or advancing to WSET Level 2 Award in Wines enhances expertise and marketability.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Working in restaurants, hotels, and wineries helps build practical skills and customer service proficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Norfolk
Several leading establishments in Norfolk actively seek talented Sommeliers to maintain high-quality wine programs and service excellence, including:
- The Main
- Saltine
- Varia
- Byrd & Baldwin Bros. Steakhouse
Establishments That Sommeliers in Norfolk Work At
Sommeliers typically find employment in a variety of food and beverage establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer the highest salaries due to their upscale wine programs and client expectations.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Providing wine service to guests with premium experiences also commands higher wages.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: These may provide opportunities for sommeliers to engage directly with wine enthusiasts and tourists.
- Casual and Chain Restaurants: While less common, some casual establishments employ sommeliers, but often with lower salary ranges.
The type and prestige of the establishment considerably affect salary, with fine dining and luxury settings generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norfolk for Sommeliers
If you're exploring roles similar to Sommelier, consider these related hospitality careers:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Food and Beverage Manager roles, all involving significant responsibilities in hospitality and beverage service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Norfolk
Sommeliers working in Norfolk should be familiar with relevant employment laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- For comprehensive state labor laws and resources visit the Virginia government website.
- For federal labor standards and information, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.