Sommelier (Hourly + Commission)

Chicago, IL, USA|

Job Overview

Employment Type

Hourly

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $20.00

Work Schedule

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

Hourly Plus Commission

flexible schedule

team environment

Opportunity for professional growth

Dynamic and creative workplace

Equal opportunity employer

community-focused environment

Job Description

City Winery is a unique and innovative hospitality brand that seamlessly combines a fully functional winery with intimate live concerts, culinary classes, and private event spaces designed to offer a multifaceted cultural experience. Founded in 2008 by music industry veteran Michael Dorf, City Winery has established itself as a premier destination where wine, food, and live entertainment converge to create unforgettable moments. With a commitment to authenticity and quality, City Winery produces award-winning wines with ratings exceeding 90 points while also hosting world-class musical performances and exceptional dining experiences. The company's core philosophy revolves around hospitality as a way of life, fostering a vibrant community where creativity and passion thrive.

The Sommelier role at City Winery represents a rare opportunity for wine and beverage experts passionate about elevating the guest experience in a lively, fast-paced setting. This hourly plus commission position calls for knowledgeable sommeliers who excel at maximizing beverage sales and creating memorable interactions through expert recommendations and educational engagement. Sommeliers at City Winery are integral to maintaining the high standards of the wine program, ensuring inventory accuracy, and delivering attentive service that resonates with the sophisticated tastes of City Winery's clientele, who include foodies and cultural patrons alike. Exceptional communication skills and a genuine enthusiasm for sharing wine knowledge are key drivers of success in this role. Candidates should have a solid understanding of global wine regions, vintages, and producers, both Old and New World, complemented by a desire to continue learning and contributing to the ongoing development of the wine program. This position promises both personal and professional growth within a distinctive environment that blends culinary arts with live cultural experiences.

Job Requirements

2 plus years sommelier experience in a fast-paced restaurant
Extensive knowledge and genuine passion for wine, winemaking, beer, and spirits
Ability to consistently deliver high-quality guest experiences and exceed guest expectations
Strong work ethic, team player, and exceptional guest service skills
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Polished presentation
Ability to take direction and accept constructive criticism
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Aptitude to resolve problems
Must be fluently literate in English including ability to read, write, and communicate, conduct basic business related mathematics, able to accurately function a POS
Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
Ability to perform physical requirements of the role including standing/walking for entirety of shift, bending, pulling, pushing, using stairs, lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds

Job Qualifications

2 plus years of sommelier experience in a fast-paced restaurant
Extensive knowledge and genuine passion for wine, winemaking, beer, and spirits
Proven ability to deliver high-quality guest experiences and exceed expectations
Strong work ethic and team player mentality
Exceptional guest service skills
Strong attention to detail and organizational capabilities
Polished and professional presentation
Ability to take direction and accept constructive feedback
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to build positive relationships with coworkers and guests
Aptitude for problem resolution
Fluency in English with ability to read, write, and communicate effectively
Proficiency in basic business mathematics and POS operation
Flexibility to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays
Physical capability to stand, walk, bend, push, pull, climb stairs, and lift up to 50 pounds

Job Duties

Maintain a clean and organized wine cellar
Recommend wine and beverage pairings to guests
Upsell tableside and retail wine offerings
Keep staff informed of beverage list updates
Assist with monthly inventory processes
Defend and promote product brands
Identify table and seat numbers accurately
Maintain station cleanliness
Know cocktail list including drinks, specs, and flavor profiles
Understand wine by the glass details including producer, variety, region, vintage, flavor profiles, and history
Perform proper bottle opening and tableside service
Provide warm, knowledgeable, and appreciative guest interactions
Make each guest feel welcomed and valued
Maintain professionalism and composure at all times
Identify and report issues promptly to management
Manage service flow and adjust timing for individual guest needs
Follow established steps of service
Take orders, run food, bus tables
Oversee team activities within the station