Find Sommelier Jobs in the U.S.

Looking for Sommelier jobs? You're in the right place — with [number_of_jobs] of openings across the U.S., Sommelier opportunities are everywhere.

How To Apply for Sommelier Jobs

Applying for a Sommelier job can be competitive, but taking the right steps will greatly improve your chances.

1. Build a Professional Sommelier Resume

Create a strong resume that showcases your wine knowledge, certifications, and service experience. Highlight your expertise in wine pairings, tastings, cellar management, and any awards or recognitions.

Register an account on OysterLink to access an easy-to-use resume builder for Sommeliers.

When using our resume-building tool, make sure to:

Fill in all details: Add your bio, work history, certifications (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers), education, and languages to boost visibility.
Set privacy: Choose who can view your resume — public or applied employers only.
Upload a photo: Add a clean, professional headshot (PNG/JPG, 200×200 px).
Update location: Make sure your city is accurate so local employers can find you.
Write your bio: Briefly highlight your skills, experience, and the type of Sommelier role you're seeking.

2. Tailor Each Sommelier Application

83% of recruiters are more likely to hire candidates who submit customized resumes. That said:

Don’t send the same resume and cover letter to every job.
Mirror the job description and highlight relevant wine expertise.
Mention the restaurant or wine bar by name and why their wine selection and concept excite you.

A tailored application helps you stand out in a competitive Sommelier job market.

3. Prepare for Sommelier Job Interviews

Before any wine-focused interview, practice discussing your wine background, philosophy, and how you handle guest interactions. Tailor your strengths to the setting you're applying to.

Review the job listing and wine list.
Share examples that demonstrate your leadership, palate development, or service innovation.
Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges and ask thoughtful questions about cellar management and guest preferences.
Highlight your flexibility and interpersonal skills — key traits in guest-focused, high-end establishments.

Here are some commonly asked questions and sample answers for Sommelier interviews:

Why Work as a Sommelier in the U.S.?

Becoming a Sommelier in the United States is no longer just a niche calling; it’s a respected career path that combines expertise, creativity, and a growing demand for wine knowledge.

With diners expecting elevated beverage programs and restaurants investing heavily in curated wine lists, the role of the Sommelier has never been more important—or more rewarding.

Strong Job Growth and Rising Demand

Across the U.S., the hospitality industry is expanding beyond food service to create unforgettable dining experiences. Wine service is a big part of that growth.

According to the National Restaurant Association, more than 60% of full‑service restaurants now offer enhanced wine programs, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth in roles that require advanced food and beverage knowledge, including Sommeliers.

Vast Opportunities in a Thriving Industry

Besides the growing demand for Sommeliers in restaurants, hotels and resorts, there is a growing demand for Sommeliers in wineries.

There are 11,499 bonded wineries according to Wine Business Analytics. Here's how they're separated based on state:

State	Winery Count	% of Total
California	4,864	42%
Oregon	874	8%
Washington	854	7%
Texas	527	5%
New York	452	4%
Pennsylvania	401	3%
Virginia	390	3%
Ohio	336	3%
Michigan	255	2%
North Carolina	202	2%
Missouri	160	1%
Colorado	155	1%
All other states	2,029	18%
Total U.S. Wineries	11,499	100%

Competitive Salaries Across the Country

A Sommelier’s compensation reflects their expertise. National data compiled from industry salary reports show that entry‑level assistant Sommeliers can earn between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, while certified Sommeliers with several years of experience often average $60,000 to $75,000 per year.

In high‑cost, wine‑centric markets, the pay climbs even higher.

New York City: Senior Sommeliers often make $80,000–$100,000 with bonus structures tied to wine sales.
San Francisco: Positions in luxury hotels or acclaimed restaurants average $85,000 and can exceed six figures.
Miami and Chicago: Salaries typically range from $65,000 to $90,000, with additional benefits such as wine education stipends or travel for vineyard visits.

Performance incentives are common in this field. Many establishments offer commission on wine sales, profit‑sharing on beverage programs, and perks like paid certifications through the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).

Sommelier Career Progression

Mapping out a Sommelier career means understanding how skills, certifications, and experience translate into bigger roles and higher pay.

Below is a clear path showing each step in the journey and the typical salary ranges you can expect at each level.

1. Entry‑Level: Wine Steward / Server with Wine Duties

What you do: Assist with basic wine service, learn varietals, and support the main Sommelier.
Typical salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year (often includes tips/service charges).

2. Junior Sommelier / Assistant Sommelier

What you do: Manage sections of a wine list, handle some purchasing, train servers on pairings.
Typical salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year plus occasional bonuses or tasting perks.

3. Sommelier (Full Role)

What you do: Oversee the wine program, curate lists, negotiate with vendors, lead staff education.
Typical salary: $60,000 – $75,000 per year; high‑volume or luxury restaurants may push toward $80K with incentives.

4. Head Sommelier / Beverage Manager

What you do: Lead a team, control beverage budgets, design multi‑venue programs, and host events.
Typical salary: $75,000 – $90,000 per year, often with bonus structures tied to sales and profitability.

5. Master Sommelier / Director of Wine

What you do: Top-tier leadership—consulting, global programs, high-level purchasing, and brand direction.
Typical salary: $100,000 – $160,000+ per year, with many earning commissions, speaking fees, and travel stipends.