Sommelier Salary in Spokane, WA
Sommeliers in Spokane, WA, in 2025, 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 Spokane is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for wine and beverage experts in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Sommelier Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of a Sommelier in Spokane varies by experience level and expertise. Below is an overview of earnings across different 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 Spokane Earn Tips?
Sommeliers typically earn tips as part of their compensation, especially when working in fine dining establishments. They can make an extra $10 to $25 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and clientele, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Sommelier Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Sommeliers earn an average of about $24.25 per hour, which translates to approximately $50,440 annually.
In comparison, Sommeliers in Spokane earn a higher hourly wage of $31.00 per hour and make about $64,480 annually. This higher pay reflects local demand for beverage expertise in the hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Sommeliers
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, the salary for Sommeliers varies slightly:
- Downtown Spokane: $32.00 per hour
- South Hill: $33.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer competitive wages due to the concentration of upscale dining and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Sommelier’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors impact a Sommelier's salary in Spokane:
- Experience and Certification: More experienced Sommeliers or those with advanced certifications tend to earn more.
- Establishment Type: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and specialty wine bars generally pay higher wages compared to casual venues.
- Skills and Knowledge: Expertise in wine varieties, pairing, and customer service enhances earning potential.
- Local Demand: Spokane’s growing culinary scene is increasing the value and salaries of Sommeliers.
How To Become a Sommelier in Spokane
To pursue a career as a Sommelier in Spokane, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Formal Certification: Programs from the Court of Master Sommeliers offer progressive certification levels from Introductory to Master Sommelier.
- Expand Knowledge with WSET: The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) provides globally recognized courses, including the Level 3 Award in Wines.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in restaurants or wine shops to develop hands-on skills.
- Build Networking: Engage with local restaurants, wineries, and hospitality groups to find job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sommeliers in Spokane
Spokane offers job opportunities for Sommeliers at notable establishments such as:
- Total Wine & More
- Davenport Hotels
- Anthony's Restaurants
- Clinkerdagger
- Wild Sage Bistro
Establishments That Sommeliers in Spokane Work At
Sommeliers find employment in a variety of hospitality settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These typically offer the highest salaries due to the complexity of wine programs.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Offering extensive beverage services requiring expert Sommeliers.
- Wine Retailers and Specialty Shops: Positions may focus on customer education and wine sales.
- Catering and Event Companies: Sommeliers may oversee beverage selections for events, sometimes with flexible schedules.
The type of establishment greatly affects the salary, with fine dining and luxury venues generally providing higher compensation and opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Sommeliers
If you're interested in careers related to Sommelier, here are some similar roles to consider:
These include Beverage Director, Bartender, and Bar Manager positions, which share aspects of wine and beverage service expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sommeliers in Spokane
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sommeliers working in Spokane, WA.
- Details on professional licensing and regulations can be found on the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
- Comprehensive employment and wage data is available at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.