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Sommelier Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Nbutexas

Assistant General Manager

Auburn, AL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Certified Sommelier certification or equivalent advanced wine knowledge required * Experience managing wine programs, beverage operations, inventory, and team education * Background in luxury ...

New

Mintex Technology

Executive Chef

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$90K/yr

Accolades and certifications highly valued (CEC, Sommelier, advanced chef/leadership training) * Growth-oriented, but committed to a minimum 3-year tenure before upward mobility Preferred Experience ...

Fleming's

Wine and Restaurant Manager

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Level I sommelier (preferred) * Availability to work a flexible schedule * Legal authorization to work in the United States * Must be at least 21 years of age * Basic computer proficiency preferred ...

All JobsSommelier JobsSommelier Jobs in Alabama

Sommelier information

See Alabama salary details

$6

$18

$37

How much do sommelier jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for sommelier in Alabama is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sommelier?

A sommelier is a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, typically working in fine restaurants, who specializes in all aspects of wine service as well as food and wine pairing. Their responsibilities include curating wine lists, recommending wines to guests, and ensuring the proper storage and serving of wine. Sommeliers often have extensive training and certifications, giving them expertise in wine regions, grape varieties, tasting, and pairing wines with different cuisines.

What is a sommelier?

A sommelier operates the beverage program at a restaurant. As a sommelier, you focus on wine, but depending on the restaurant’s needs, you may also develop knowledge of other beverages such as spirits and liqueurs. Your job duties include interacting with guests during tastings and suggesting wine pairings in the restaurant. You also set the wine list, procure unique wines, work with the chef to create wine pairings, and train staff to recommend vintages to guests based on their tastes.

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

To thrive as a Sommelier, you need in-depth wine knowledge, sensory evaluation skills, and formal certification such as those from the Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET. Familiarity with wine inventory systems, point-of-sale software, and cellar management tools is common. Exceptional communication, customer service, and the ability to educate and engage guests set top sommeliers apart. These skills are vital for delivering memorable dining experiences and driving beverage sales in hospitality settings.

What are some typical challenges sommeliers face when curating a wine list for a restaurant?

Sommeliers often encounter challenges balancing the preferences of the restaurant's clientele, the style of cuisine, and budget constraints when creating a wine list. They must ensure a diverse selection that complements menu items, appeals to a range of tastes, and meets pricing expectations. Additionally, sommeliers need to maintain relationships with distributors, stay updated on trends, and manage inventory to avoid overstocking or running out of key bottles. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills to collaborate effectively with kitchen staff and management.

What is the difference between Sommelier vs Wine Steward?

AspectSommelierWine Steward
CredentialsWine certifications (e.g., WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers)Often no formal certification, but knowledge of wines preferred
Work EnvironmentUpscale restaurants, hotels, wine barsRestaurants, catering, hospitality settings
Industry UsageCommonly used in fine dining and luxury venuesMore casual settings, but also in fine dining
Job FocusWine selection, pairing, service, and educationAssisting with wine service and stock management

While both roles involve wine knowledge and service, a Sommelier typically has formal certifications and works in upscale environments focusing on wine pairing and education. A Wine Steward may have less formal training and work in a variety of restaurant settings, assisting with wine service and inventory management.

Are sommeliers in demand?

Sommeliers are in demand in high-end restaurants, hotels, and wine retail establishments, especially those with extensive wine programs. The role requires strong knowledge of wines, certifications such as WSET, and excellent customer service skills, which can increase employment opportunities in the hospitality industry.

How much do certified sommeliers make?

Certified sommeliers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and establishment type. Those working in high-end restaurants or with advanced certifications can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by tips and bonuses.

How much do sommeliers earn?

Sommeliers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and establishment type. Higher-end restaurants and those in major cities often offer higher salaries, and certifications like the Court of Master Sommeliers can enhance earning potential.

Is it easy to get a job as a sommelier?

Securing a job as a sommelier can be competitive and often requires relevant wine knowledge, customer service skills, and certifications such as the Court of Master Sommeliers. Entry-level positions are available, but advancing typically involves gaining experience and specialized training.
More about Sommelier jobs

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For Sommelier jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Sommelier jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sommelier job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,382 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

1856 Restaurant Assistant General Manager/Wine Director

Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center

Auburn, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Purpose

Join Ithaka Hospitality Partners and Auburn University in leading the next generation of hospitality professionals. The Assistant General Manager & Wine Director will serve as a pivotal leader within 1856 – Culinary Residence, a luxury teaching restaurant in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center. This role supports the restaurant's daily operations, wine education, and beverage program development-balancing commercial excellence with world-class experiential learning for students.

About 1856 – Culinary Residence

1856 – Culinary Residence is a fine dining teaching restaurant named after Auburn University's founding year. The restaurant hosts a Chef in Residence and a Master Sommelier in Residence, offering students real-time mentorship and an immersive restaurant experience through à la carte lunch and a multi-course tasting dinner.

Recognitions include:

  • Forbes, Southern Living, Garden & Gun, Travel + Leisure features
  • AAA Five Diamond Award via The Laurel Hotel & Spa
  • Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Guest Experience

  • Support the General Manager in overseeing all aspects of daily service, operations, scheduling, and staffing.
  • Lead pre-service huddles and manage floor operations during high-touch service hours.
  • Train students and team members to deliver Forbes Five-Star hospitality standards.
  • Coordinate FOH execution in collaboration with the Chef in Residence and Director of Culinary Innovations.
  • Manage guest satisfaction, dietary restrictions, and VIP expectations with precision and grace.

Wine & Beverage Program Leadership

  • Oversee all wine and beverage programming for 1856-Culinary Residence and collaborate with associated outlets such as The Laurel Library, Walt's Rooftop and The Laurel Spa
  • Maintain an award-winning wine list and execute beverage pairing strategies for rotating tasting menus to include wine, spirits and cocktails.
  • Lead wine education, pairings, inventory, and staff training moments.
  • Create engaging guest experiences through curated tastings, dinners, and educational events.
  • Support purchasing and inventory with a focus on quality control and wine cellar management.

Education & Student Development

  • Provide direct mentorship to students working in 1856-Culinary Residence, ensuring a balance between commercial execution and pedagogical value.
  • Administer verbal and written service/wine tests and performance feedback sessions.
  • Develop future sommeliers through a structured internship program, experiential learning opportunities, and global industry exposure.

Strategic & Commercial Oversight

  • Collaborate on forecasting, budgeting, and financial performance targets for wine sales and overall operations.
  • Contribute to the planning of wine-focused events (e.g., industry dinners, beverage conferences, travel immersions).
  • Partner on marketing, menu design, and social media engagement related to beverage programming.
  • Stay current on global beverage trends and integrate them into both operations and academic instruction.

Qualifications

Preferred:

  • 5+ years in fine dining restaurant service, with 3+ years in leadership
  • Deep experience in wine service and programming; certified sommelier certification or equivalent required
  • Experience in multi-course tasting menu environments
  • Strong teaching and mentorship abilities with a passion for student development
  • Experience with wine list development recognized by Wine Spectator or equivalent
  • Background in upscale dining rooms with either Forbes or James Beard Recognition
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Wine Studies, or related field

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to stand, walk, lift, and perform floor duties for extended periods
  • Able to lift 30+ pounds and manage wine cellar organization
  • Available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Travel occasionally for wine industry networking and educational trips

Who We Are

At Ithaka Hospitality Partners, we believe in journeys filled with discovery, hospitality with soul, and partnerships built on trust. We are shaping the future of hospitality-and invite you to be part of it.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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