Sommelier Salary in Rockford, IL
Sommelier jobs in Rockford, IL, in 2025, pay approximately $31.00 per hour, which amounts to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The career outlook for Sommeliers in Rockford shows a positive growth rate of around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the hospitality and wine service industries locally.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Sommelier in Rockford varies based on experience and workplace, but the table below breaks down approximate earnings at different experience levels.
| 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 Rockford Earn Tips?
Sommeliers often work closely with guests to recommend and serve wines, so it is common for them to earn tips as part of their compensation. Tips can add an estimated $10 to $15 per hour on top of their base salary, depending on the establishment and clientele.
Sommelier Salary in Rockford vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers make around $27.96 per hour, or approximately $58,156.80 per year.
Sommelier salaries in Rockford are generally higher than the national average, with hourly wages roughly $3.04 more and annual earnings about $6,323.20 greater, reflecting local demand and experience levels.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Sommeliers
Nearby localities offer slightly higher wages for Sommeliers:
- East Rockford: $33.00 per hour
- Downtown Rockford: $32.50 per hour
These areas may provide opportunities for higher-paying Sommelier roles compared to other parts of Rockford.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Rockford?
Various factors impact a Sommelier's earnings in Rockford:
- Experience & Expertise: More experienced Sommeliers with deep wine knowledge command higher pay.
- Certifications: Credentials like Certified Sommelier or similar can increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and wineries typically offer better compensation compared to casual venues.
- Clientele & Tips: Locations catering to affluent customers often yield higher tips and bonuses.
- Soft Skills: Service excellence and sales ability also influence earnings.
How To Become a Sommelier in Rockford
Becoming a Sommelier involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience:
- Consider enrolling in programs such as the Chicago Wine School Online Sommelier Programs which provide comprehensive professional sommelier certification courses accessible from Rockford.
- Participate in hands-on training and certification like the Kendall College Wine Professional Program in Chicago, offering various certification levels.
- Obtain certifications such as the Court of Master Sommeliers Certified Sommelier credential, focusing on wine knowledge and service excellence.
- Advance with accreditations like the National Wine School Level Three Sommelier Certification for deeper expertise.
- Gain real-world experience in restaurants, wine shops, or vineyards to hone skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Rockford
These companies and establishments actively seek Sommeliers in Rockford:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Sommeliers in Rockford Work At
Sommeliers in Rockford find opportunities in varied venues including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries and tips reflecting the upscale clientele.
- Wineries and Vineyards: Engage in wine expertise and customer education with good pay potential.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide stable employment with competitive salaries and benefits.
- Casual Dining: May offer entry-level positions with moderate pay and fewer tipping opportunities.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly affect Sommelier salaries and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Sommeliers
If you are exploring roles similar to a Sommelier, consider these options that share overlap in skills and industry:
These careers include Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Bartender, positions requiring knowledge of beverages, customer service, and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Rockford
Staying informed about labor regulations and tax obligations is essential for Sommeliers:
- Use the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for national guidelines.
- The State of Illinois official website offers resources specific to Illinois labor laws.
- Check the City of Rockford official website for local employment regulations and resources.