Sommelier Salary in Ontario, CA
Sommelier positions in Ontario, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.78 per hour, which translates to about $831.20 per week, $3,601.87 per month, and $43,222.40 per year.
The demand for Sommeliers in Ontario is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising career path with increasing job opportunities within the hospitality and wine industries.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Ontario, CA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Ontario varies based on experience, skills, and type of establishment. Below is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.20 | $688.00 | $2,985.33 | $35,776.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.20 | $688.00 | $2,985.33 | $35,776.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sommeliers in Ontario Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often earn additional income through tips, especially in fine dining establishments. They can make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the venue and customer generosity.
Sommelier Salary in Ontario vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of around $22.34 per hour, or approximately $46,467.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sommeliers in Ontario earn slightly less hourly at about $20.78 per hour and $43,222.40 annually.
This difference can be influenced by regional economic factors and the local hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ontario for Sommeliers
Nearby regions offer varied compensation levels for Sommeliers:
- Niagara-on-the-Lake: $24.49 per hour
- Toronto: $21.37 per hour
Sommeliers seeking higher wages may consider these areas, especially Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its wine tourism industry.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Ontario?
Several factors contribute to the salary levels for Sommeliers in Ontario:
- Experience and Certifications: Certified Sommeliers with recognized credentials tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and wine-focused venues typically offer better pay than casual dining.
- Knowledge and Skills: Expertise in wine regions, pairing, and beverage management enhances earning potential.
- Location: Salaries vary based on local demand and economic conditions, with urban centers offering more opportunities.
How To Become a Sommelier in Ontario
Starting a career as a Sommelier in Ontario involves several key steps and educational options.
- Pursue Certification Programs: Programs such as the CAPS Sommelier Certification Program offered through George Brown College and Niagara College provide in-depth training in wine and beverage management.
- Complete Sommelier Training at Algonquin College: This part-time program combines classes, tastings, food and wine pairings, and certifications from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: In Ontario, the Smart Serve Certification is required for individuals handling and serving alcohol.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants or wineries helps develop real-world skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Ontario
Some of the leading employers recruiting Sommeliers in Ontario include:
- Glowbal Restaurant Group
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Sommeliers in Ontario Work At
Sommeliers typically work in various hospitality settings, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salary ranges given the expertise required.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive salaries plus benefits.
- Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms: Offer opportunities to specialize but may pay less than high-end restaurants.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally employ Sommeliers with more limited roles and lower pay.
The type of establishment significantly affects the salary, with finer venues rewarding higher skill levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ontario for Sommeliers
If you are interested in positions related to Sommelier, consider these similar roles:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which share overlapping responsibilities in beverage service and management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Ontario
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sommeliers working in Ontario.
- Visit the Federal government website providing job market information and employment resources for comprehensive labor standards and employment rights.
- Consult Ontario's provincial government site for information on employment services and provincial labor regulations.