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Head Sommelier Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zuma Restaurant

$75 - $120/hr

As a Zuma Head Sommelier, you are responsible for curating and managing the wine program to enhance the dining experience for our guests. You will use your expertise in wine& sake selection, and ...

New

Zuma Restaurant

Head Sommelier

Vail, CO · On-site

$75 - $120/hr

As a Zuma Head Sommelier, you are responsible for curating and managing the wine program to enhance the dining experience for our guests. You will use your expertise in wine& sake selection, and ...

New

Oetker Hotels

Head Sommelier

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

The Head Sommelier is responsible for overseeing the restaurant's wine and beverage program, recommends food and wine pairings, and advises guests on wine selections based on their preferences and ...

Boujis Hospitality

Head Sommelier

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

The Sommelier's daily responsibilities include but aren't limited to the selling of wine on the restaurant floor, maintaining the standards of the restaurant, assisting the other FOH positions when ...

Oetker Hotels

Head Sommelier

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The Head Sommelier is responsible for overseeing the restaurant's wine and beverage program, recommends food and wine pairings, and advises guests on wine selections based on their preferences and ...

Boujis Group

Head Sommelier

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

The Sommelier's daily responsibilities include but aren't limited to the selling of wine on the restaurant floor, maintaining the standards of the restaurant, assisting the other FOH positions when ...

Boujis Hospitality

Head Sommelier

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

The Sommelier's daily responsibilities include but aren't limited to the selling of wine on the restaurant floor, maintaining the standards of the restaurant, assisting the other FOH positions when ...

Arva at Aman New York by F&B 575

Sommelier

New York, NY · On-site

$17/hr

We are looking for individuals to work in conjunction with our Wine Director and Head Sommelier to help select our wine offerings, to provide continued education for our team and to evolve the wine ...

RHS WINE LLC

Sommelier

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... Head Sommelier. ● Complete a post service report, building team knowledge of rare wines tasted and to enhance our guests' experience. ● Join the Head Sommelier/Beverage director in tasting and ...

RHS WINE LLC

Sommelier

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... Head Sommelier. ● Complete a post service report, building team knowledge of rare wines tasted and to enhance our guests' experience. ● Join the Head Sommelier/Beverage director in tasting and ...

Hawksmoor

Sommelier

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12.62/hr

Reporting to the Head Sommelier, we're looking for a brand-new Sommelier to join our team and open our second international restaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careers with Hawksmoor Group ...

Hawksmoor - Chicago

Sommelier

Chicago, IL

$12.62/hr

Reporting to the Head Sommelier, we're looking for a brand-new Sommelier to join our team and open our second international restaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careers with Hawksmoor Group ...

Hawksmoor - Chicago

Sommelier

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12.62/hr

Reporting to the Head Sommelier, we're looking for a brand-new Sommelierto join our team and open our second international restaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careerswith Hawksmoor Group ...

The Charter Oak

Sommelier

Saint Helena, CA

If the Head Sommelier is not working, the Sommeliers must be manage the day to day needs of the wine program (POS management, stocking, replenishing, updating staff, etc). Sommeliers are expected to ...

Hawksmoor - US

Sommelier

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12.62/hr

Reporting to the Head Sommelier, we're looking for a brand-new Sommelierto join our team and open our second international restaurant in Chicago. Work somewhere awesome: Careerswith Hawksmoor Group ...

The Charter Oak

Sommelier

Saint Helena, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

If the Head Sommelier is not working, the Sommeliers must be manage the day to day needs of the wine program (POS management, stocking, replenishing, updating staff, etc). Sommeliers are expected to ...

Kerzner International

Sommelier (Akira Back)

Big Sky, MT · On-site

$50/hr

Key Duties and Responsibilities • Assist the Head Sommelier and Restaurant Manager in curating and maintaining the wine list • Assist with wine service and guide guests through wine selections ...

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Head Sommelier information

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How much do head sommelier jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for head sommelier in the United States is $20.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a head sommelier do?

A Head Sommelier is responsible for managing the wine program in a restaurant, hotel, or other hospitality venue. Their duties include selecting and purchasing wines, creating wine lists, training staff, advising guests on wine pairings, and managing the wine cellar. They often work closely with chefs to ensure that wines complement the menu and enhance the dining experience. The Head Sommelier also oversees inventory, budgeting, and may organize wine events or tastings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a head sommelier?

To thrive as a Head Sommelier, you need expert knowledge of wine, strong tasting abilities, and typically a certification such as WSET Level 3 or Court of Master Sommeliers credentials. Familiarity with cellar management systems, wine inventory software, and point-of-sale systems is also important. Outstanding communication, leadership, and customer service skills help you guide staff and create memorable guest experiences. These competencies ensure optimal wine selection, efficient operations, and a high standard of service in hospitality environments.

What are common challenges faced by a head sommelier and how can they be managed?

One of the main challenges for a Head Sommelier is balancing a diverse wine program with the restaurant's budget and customer preferences. Staying current with wine trends and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers is essential, as is training and mentoring junior staff to ensure consistent service. Additionally, Head Sommeliers often collaborate closely with chefs and management to create pairings that enhance the overall dining experience. Managing inventory and adapting to seasonal changes in both wine availability and menu offerings are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Head Sommelier vs Sommelier?

AspectHead SommelierSommelier
CredentialsWine certifications, extensive wine knowledgeWine knowledge, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLeading wine service, managing staffAssisting with wine service, supporting the team
Employer & Industry UsageLuxury restaurants, hotels, wineriesRestaurants, hotels, catering
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in wine serviceEntry to mid-level wine service roles

The main difference between a Head Sommelier and a Sommelier is that the Head Sommelier holds a leadership position, overseeing wine service and managing staff, often requiring advanced certifications. A Sommelier typically assists in wine service and may have fewer responsibilities. Both roles are vital in upscale dining environments, but the Head Sommelier focuses on management and strategy, while the Sommelier concentrates on wine expertise and customer service.

How much do head sommeliers make?

Head sommeliers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, with higher salaries in luxury establishments or high-cost regions. Compensation can include tips, bonuses, and benefits, and often depends on experience, location, and the size of the restaurant or hotel.
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Head Sommelier jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Sommelier job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,449 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Beverage Director / Head Sommelier

the Chef Agency

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Location - San Francisco, CA
Salary - $95-110k
Benefits - MDV, PTO, 401k + relocation (if candidate can move within a tight timeline)
Seeking a beverage director /head sommelier to helm the program of a Michelin-starred restaurant.
 
Qualifications
  • Extensive knowledge across wine and beer with proven experience leading a Michelin-level or similarly ambitious program. Minimum: Advanced Sommelier certification or WSET level 3. 
  • Strong financial and organizational acumen (purchasing, inventory, cellar management)
  • Collaborative, mentorship-driven leadership style paired with a passion for guest education and storytelling
Responsibilities
  • Own the full beverage program - curation, purchasing, inventory, and cellar organization
  • Develop pairings and service standards in close collaboration with the kitchen and dining room teams
  • Train, mentor, and educate the beverage team to uphold high service and hospitality standards
Chef Agency logo

About Chef Agency

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

THE MOST TALENTED RECRUITING TEAM IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. With our support, you’ll have exclusive access to top-tier clients, a robust candidate database, insight from industry experts, and the necessary training and tools needed to build your book of business. Reach out today, and create your own work-life balance while achieving success in the recruiting world.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2013

Social media

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