20 Head Sommelier jobs in the United States

• Develop, manage, and update the restaurant's comprehensive wine list.
• Source and select wines from domestic and international producers, establishing strong supplier relationships.
• Oversee all aspects of wine inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stock rotation.
• Ensure optimal cellar conditions for wine preservation and aging.
• Conduct regular wine tastings and evaluations to maintain quality and discover new selections.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on food and wine pairing recommendations.
• Train and mentor junior sommeliers and service staff on wine knowledge and service standards.
• Provide exceptional wine service to guests, including recommendations, decanting, and proper serving techniques.
• Drive wine sales and profitability through expert guidance and upselling.
• Organize and host wine dinners, tasting events, and educational seminars.

• Advanced Sommelier Certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers Advanced Sommelier or equivalent) is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in wine service and cellar management within fine dining establishments.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, grape varietals, vintages, and emerging trends.
• Proven ability to build and manage a diverse and high-quality wine cellar.
• Exceptional palate and sensory evaluation skills.
• Strong leadership, training, and team development capabilities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Proficiency in inventory management software and POS systems.
• Passion for wine, food, and delivering memorable guest experiences.

Musaafer NYC, the New York outpost of the award-winning concept behind Houston’s Michelin-starred culinary destination, is seeking a Wine Director to lead our wine program.

As our Wine Director, you’ll be entrusted with curating and evolving a world-class wine program that reflects our culinary vision, supports the guest experience, and elevates our team’s knowledge and service. You’ll work closely with the General Manager and Chef to build a program that is ambitious, balanced, and expressive — a true extension of our identity.

We are seeking a passionate, business-minded, and guest-driven leader to help define what hospitality and excellence look like. This is a rare opportunity to shape and execute a best-in-class wine program while also serving as a mentor and culture-setter.

This is more than a beverage role — it’s a leadership position. You’ll play a key part in our daily operations, support floor service, develop our team’s wine literacy, and uphold the high standards that define us.

What You'll Do

As a Wine Director, not only will you lead the wine program, but you’ll also serve as a leader on the dining room floor, ensuring smooth service, strong team performance, and memorable guest experiences every night. You’ll work closely with the General Manager and department heads to oversee daily operations, coach the FOH team, and uphold the systems and standards that support consistency, grace, and professionalism.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and maintain a world-class, award-worthy wine program that reflects the restaurant’s identity and supports the culinary vision.
• Drive beverage sales through thoughtful pairings, strategic pricing, and active guest engagement, using wine as a tool for both experience and revenue.
• Lead daily wine operations, including inventory management, purchasing, cost controls, and cellar organization. Maintain a clean, organized, and accessible cellar.
• Oversee wine service standards, including proper storage, glassware, and temperature control.
• Train and educate the team, from introductory knowledge to advanced wine theory and service. Lead pre-service meetings, tastings, and ongoing staff development.
• Deliver exceptional table-side wine service, including decanting, pairing recommendations, and storytelling that enhances the guest’s dining experience.
• Collaborate with the GM and Executive Chef to craft pairings and deliver a seamless guest experience.
• Foster relationships with distributors, importers, and producers, and stay ahead of market trends, allocations, and opportunities.
• Assist in managing the FOH team, including scheduling, coaching, and upholding service standards.
• Contribute to opening operations, from glassware selection and list development to training materials and systems implementation.
• Drive programming and events, such as winemaker dinners and education series

Who You Are

• A dynamic wine professional with deep knowledge and genuine curiosity — you bring a world-class palate and a grounded presence
• 2+ years of experience managing a high-level wine program, preferably in a Michelin-rated or fine dining setting
• A natural mentor and team leader who values collaboration, humility, and professionalism
• Proven ability to lead by example with a collaborative spirit and inspire a team through empathy, presence, and professionalism
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; you’re as comfortable leading pre-shift as you are guiding a guest through their experience
• Keen financial acumen with a track record of managing budgets, meeting targets, and improving performance
• Deep understanding of service steps, pacing, etiquette, hospitality philosophy, and an unwavering commitment to guest service
• Highly organized, with a proven ability to lead a team under pressure, stay composed during service, and solve problems with tact
• Skilled in POS systems, reservation platforms, operational software, inventory management, and labor scheduling tools
• Familiar with NYC beverage laws, compliance, and the logistics of building a list from the ground up 
• Able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Able to lift 40+ lbs and be on your feet for extended periods

Preferred But Not Required

• CMS level 2 or better, WSET level 3 or better, or similar certification
• Familiarity with POS, inventory, and cellar management systems
• Experience opening a restaurant or leading a team through a major launch
• Multilingual (especially French, Italian, Spanish, Hindi, or Bengali)
• Knowledge of NYC wine laws and distributor landscape

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Pre-opening training and onboarding with a seasoned team
• Opportunities for continued growth within a Michelin-recognized restaurant group
• A values-driven, respectful, and guest-focused team culture
• Generous dining discounts across our concepts

Join us in shaping a new chapter in New York’s dining scene. We’re building a team, a culture, and an experience. If you’re a wine leader with heart, hustle, and vision, we want to hear from you.

This is a rare opportunity to build something meaningful, with the support of a seasoned team and the excitement of a newly opened restaurant. If you’re a wine professional looking to lead with integrity, inspire with knowledge, and grow alongside a top-tier restaurant, we’d love to meet you.

Apply with your resume and a brief cover letter. Let us know why you’re the right fit and how you envision the future of wine in New York.

Company Background

The Standard is one of the most culturally engaged hotels in the world. Hotels with real cultural life, an inclusive spirit and true creative attitude. A destination layered with events and amusements that leaves you with an uplifted feeling.

The Standard's irreverent and playful sensibility, combined with a careful consideration of design, detail and service, have established its reputation as a pioneer of hospitality, travel, dining, nightlife, and beyond. The Standard hotels are known for their taste-making clientele, their pioneering design, and their unrelenting un-Standard-ness.

Mission Statement

To create experience by embracing and empowering a diverse collective of team members, collaborators, and guests, who choose to call The Standard home.

Our Purpose

The Standard’s commitment is to being an anchor for each neighbourhood in which we reside as well as a platform for culture and creativity. Bringing people together in its spaces to interact with each other in genuine ways.

Our promise is to ensure that a stay is an experience and that a memory means making friends and having stories to tell.  To understand why it exists, is to understand that The Standard, is a platform for people to meet, to engage, to learn, to dine, to sleep, to dance, to hideaway, to make believe and to do so whilst being yourself and having fun doing it.

We think of ourselves as a stage, not just a hotel. Here, you can become whomever you like, even if for just a night. Here, you will meet new friends, find new challenges, eat new food, stay up late, sleep in later, and at times, never even leave the property. We are unapologetically comfortable with disrupting expectations. It’s WHO WE ARE!

#StandardFamily

Job Title: Wine Director

Department: Food and Beverage

Location: The Standard, High Line

Reporting to: Director of Food & Beverage

Responsible for : All FOH and BOH staff, Sommelier, Wine Stewards

Job Overview: The Wine Director is the driving force behind our property’s wine culture, bringing expertise, creativity, and a floor-first approach. This role blends curation, education, and cost control with a heavy presence during peak service periods, ensuring guests and staff alike are immersed in a dynamic and engaging wine experience. While this is a property-wide position, the Grill is the main stage—where strategies are tested, sales are driven, and our wine program takes the spotlight.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

Service Leadership

• Be highly visible and hands-on during peak service times, engaging with guests, guiding pairings, and driving energy on the floor.
• Partner with servers to upsell and maximize wine sales while creating interactive, memorable moments for guests.
• Serve as the go-to “wine personality” on property, making wine approachable, fun, and woven into the guest experience.

Wine Program & Curation

• Curate, maintain, and evolve the property-wide wine list, with an emphasis on The Standard Grill as the flagship program.
• Create playful, surprising, and thoughtful selections that reflect the brand’s identity while balancing profitability.
• Develop seasonal wine features, pairings, and activations to keep offerings fresh and exciting.

Sales Strategy & Education

• Build and implement strategies to increase wine sales across all outlets, with Grill as the primary focus.
• Lead regular trainings, pre-shifts, and tastings to educate and inspire staff, making them confident wine storytellers.
• Design and execute fun, interactive programming (tastings, winemaker events, competitions, etc.) to boost engagement and revenue.

Cost Control & Inventory

• Partner with the Food & Beverage Cost Controller to monitor, manage, and optimize wine costs.
• Maintain accurate inventory, streamline ordering, and minimize variances.
• Develop systems for reporting, accountability, and strategic purchasing to ensure margins align with budget targets.

Collaboration & Culture

• Work closely with the Beverage Director on broader property strategies and activations.
• Collaborate with outlet managers and chefs to craft pairings and integrate wine into the culinary narrative.
• Foster a culture where wine is part of the fun—approachable, engaging, and profitable.

Qualifications

• Strong background in wine curation, service, and education
• High level sommelier certification (WSET level 3 or equivalent)
• Demonstrated ability to drive sales and control costs in a high-volume environment.
• Exceptional floor presence with strong communication and guest-engagement skills.
• Experience in developing and executing creative wine programs for multi-outlet operations.
• Passion for making wine approachable, fun, and a central part of the dining experience.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• The Grill consistently outperforms in wine sales while maintaining cost targets.
• Team members are confident, educated, and actively selling wine with enthusiasm.
• Guests leave remembering not just the meal, but the wine experience.
• The wine program evolves seasonally, stays exciting, and reflects The Standard’s playful DNA.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Pay Rate: $80,000 - $90,000 per year
• Annual Bonus Incentive
• • Requirements:
    • Wine Sales must increase compared to Prior Year in The Standard Grill
    • Wine Sales' portion of the overall Food & Beverage P-Mix must not decrease in The Standard Grill
    • Wine Cost may not exceed 27% Quarterly, and must work in tandem as to not skew the overall Beverage Cost above budget each month (in all outlets)
    • Bonus: 3% of the Net Increase on Wine Sales in The Standard Grill compared to prior year.
• Excellent and Affordable Health care coverage
• Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, Pet Insurance
• 160 hours of PTO / year and Company recognized holidays
• Employee Discounts on Rooms, F&B, Retail, and The Standard Marketplace
• Employee Meals, Employee Referral Program, Commuter Discounts
• 401k
• Regular fun staff events and celebrations!

Description

At McGuire Moorman Lambert Hospitality, we create memorable experiences through thoughtful food, service, and design. Led by Larry McGuire, Tom Moorman, and Liz Lambert, MML is known for refined hospitality rooted in storytelling, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. We proudly own and operate all our properties, selecting only projects that reflect our vision and values.

We are honored to welcome The Driskill Hotel, Austin’s most iconic landmark, into the MML team. A symbol of timeless elegance since 1886, The Driskill represents the heart of the city’s history and hospitality. Within the hotel, The Driskill Bar & Grill brings a modern interpretation of the classic American steakhouse ,Where warm Texas spirit meets sophisticated design, impeccable service, and a menu crafted for both everyday dining and momentous celebrations. This is a place where locals and travelers gather to experience the best of Austin tradition, elevated by MML’s signature approach to hospitality.

MML Hospitality is seeking a dynamic and passionate Wine Director   to lead the wine and beverage program at The Driskill Bar & Grill. This leadership role is responsible for shaping the guest experience, building a world-class beverage program, and driving financial success through thoughtful curation, education, and service.

Why you'll want to work for MML:

• Competitive salary
• Bonus Potential
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Maternity/paternity leave 
• Paid time off and flexible scheduling 
• Employee dining and retail discounts across all MML properties 
• Opportunity to be part of one of Austin’s most iconic hotels and a growing hospitality group

What you'll do:

• Develop and maintain an exciting, accessible, and profitable wine and beverage program tailored to The Driskill Bar & Grill
• Partner with the GM and MML Beverage Team to exceed guest expectations and deliver memorable dining experiences
• Lead, mentor, and train staff on wine knowledge, beverage service standards, and hospitality best practices 
• Create and execute staff education programs, producer profiles, and wine tastings to inspire team engagement 
• Build strong relationships with distributors and producers, ensuring a thoughtful and balanced selection
• Participate in and oversee monthly beverage inventories and maintain accurate recordkeeping
• Drive sales and profitability while maintaining strong cost controls
• Support private dining, banquets, and events with curated wine selections and pairings
• Ensure all beverage operations meet MML and health department standards

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years’ experience managing a wine program in a high-volume, well-established restaurant or hospitality environment
• Extensive knowledge of wine regions, varietals, service standards, and current industry trends
• Proven leadership and training experience with the ability to inspire and elevate a team
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Strong financial acumen and ability to balance creativity with profitability
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Physical requirements: 

• Must be able to stand, walk, and be on your feet for extended periods
• Must occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs
• Ability to adjust focus and work in varying noise levels
   

If an offer is extended for this position, you must undergo a comprehensive background check. This process may include verification of employment history, education credentials, criminal records, and other relevant information offered employment for this role will undergo a comprehensive background check. By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree to the background check process as a condition of employment.

MML Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other prohibited basis. We intend all qualified applicants to be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors

About Ai Fiori
Ai Fiori, part of the award-winning Altamarea Group,, is an iconic restaurant located in a 5-star Hotel, The Langham, New York. The menu blends modern interpretations of Italian and French Riviera cuisine, paired with warm, polished service. Known for its elegant dining experience and acclaimed wine program, Ai Fiori attracts both local and international guests seeking world-class food and hospitality.

Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Wine Director to lead our beverage program. The ideal candidate will bring deep knowledge of Italian and French wines, exceptional service skills, and the leadership to inspire and train our front-of-house team. This role requires a hands-on approach to guest engagement, list curation, and program management in a high-volume, fine dining setting.

Responsibilities:

• Curate, maintain, and evolve an extensive and diverse wine list.

• Oversee wine service, pairings, and guest education.

• Lead staff training and wine education initiatives.

• Manage vendor relationships, purchasing, and inventory control.

• Collaborate with the culinary team on seasonal pairings and events.

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years in a wine leadership role in fine dining.

• Strong knowledge of Italian and French wine regions; advanced certifications preferred.

• Proven success in building and managing wine programs.

• Excellent communication, training, and hospitality skills.

What We Offer

At Altamarea Group, we are committed to creating a supportive and professionally rewarding work environment for all of our team members. We are also pleased to offer the following benefits for our employees:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits with wide range of coverage options for families (30 days from date of hire)
• Paid Time Off (progressive with tenure)
• Career Development and Growth Opportunities
• Employee Dining Discount at All Altamarea Group Restaurants
• 401(k) Plan (one year from date of hire)

Altamarea Group is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Job Description

Benefits:

• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Tuition assistance

• Competitive wages
• Career Growth Opportunities
• Fun and Energetic Environment
• Ongoing training
• Employee Discount

• Comply with all operating standards and procedures pertaining to the daily operation and management of the store
• Stock shelves and assist with inventory
• Greet customers warmly and develop rapport to encourage repeat business
• Assist with the selection and the management of the wine portfolio
• Plan and help execute wine events such as monthly wine tastings
• Foster a positive work environment

• High school diploma or GED required
• Sommelier or WSET preferred
• Previous retail experience preferred
• Competent computer skills
• Excellent team building and leadership skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• Developing and maintaining an award-winning wine list that complements the restaurant's cuisine and appeals to a discerning clientele.
• Procuring wines from domestic and international vineyards, negotiating with distributors and suppliers.
• Managing wine inventory, including stock rotation, cellaring, and minimizing spoilage.
• Conducting regular wine tastings and staff training sessions to educate servers on wine pairings, regions, and service standards.
• Providing expert wine recommendations and exceptional service to guests at their tables.
• Building and nurturing relationships with wine producers and industry professionals.
• Overseeing the wine budget, ensuring profitability and cost control.
• Staying abreast of current wine trends, new vintages, and emerging regions.
• Collaborating with the culinary team to ensure seamless wine and food pairings.
• Maintaining the integrity and organization of the wine cellar.

• Advanced Sommelier certification (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET Level 3 or higher) is required.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in fine dining establishments, with at least 2 years in a sommelier or wine management role.
• Extensive knowledge of global wine regions, varietals, vintages, and food pairing principles.
• Proven experience in wine list development, procurement, and inventory management.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to train and motivate service staff effectively.
• Strong understanding of wine service etiquette and best practices.
• Experience with wine inventory software and POS systems.
• A refined palate and a passion for the wine industry.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.