Job Title: Sommelier

Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY
Compensation: $99,190/year (Hourly Base Pay + Overtime + Tips)

About Us

At Hear&There, we are redefining the dining experience by blending the artistry of a Japanese listening bar with the sophistication of a 22-seat Omakase counter. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, our restaurant offers a curated selection of food and beverages designed to elevate the senses. Our focus is on creating an atmosphere of comfort and luxury while delivering exceptional hospitality.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Sommelier to help lead our wine and sake program and play a pivotal role in setting the standard for service and hospitality. As part of the leadership team, you will curate a wine list that enhances our Japanese-inspired menu, collaborate on innovative pairings, and develop a non-alcoholic beverage program that aligns with our concept. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of a beverage program that bridges casual sophistication with fine dining.

Key Responsibilities
Wine Program Development

• Curate and maintain a comprehensive wine list that complements both the hot kitchen menu and Omakase offerings.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef to create pairings that enhance Japanese-inspired flavors.
• Refresh the wine list seasonally, featuring innovative and limited-edition selections.

Setting Service Standards

• Work with the leadership team to establish and uphold a culture of excellence in hospitality.
• Define and implement protocols for wine service, guest interaction, and staff training.
• Ensure that all FOH staff deliver a seamless and elevated guest experience.

Inventory and Cost Management

• Manage wine and beverage inventory, ensuring proper stock rotation and minimal waste.
• Build relationships with wine distributors and negotiate favorable terms.
• Monitor beverage costs to maintain profitability while delivering quality.

Guest Engagement

• Provide personalized wine and beverage recommendations, tailoring experiences to guest preferences.
• Host wine-pairing dinners, tastings, and special events to elevate the dining experience.
• Present and serve wines tableside, sharing tasting notes and wine history.

Staff Training and Leadership

• Educate FOH staff on wine regions, varietals, and pairing techniques.
• Conduct regular tastings to ensure staff are knowledgeable and confident.
• Collaborate with other department leaders to foster a cohesive and supportive team environment.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3–5 years as a sommelier in a fine-dining or upscale casual environment.
• Expertise: Strong knowledge of wine regions, varietals, and pairing principles, particularly with Japanese-inspired cuisine. Sake knowledge is a plus.
• Certifications: WSET Level 2 or 3, CMS Certified Sommelier, or equivalent preferred.
• Leadership: Proven ability to train and mentor staff, set service standards, and lead by example.
• Creativity: Experience developing beverage programs, including non-alcoholic offerings, is highly desirable.
• Guest Service: Exceptional interpersonal skills with a passion for hospitality and creating memorable dining experiences.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly Pay: $16.50/hour for 40 hours per week. 
• Overtime Pay: $24.75/hour for 10 hours of administrative work weekly. 
• Tip Pool Participation: Participation in the tip pool, estimated at $800–$1,200 per week, depending on sales performance. 
• Total Estimated Annual Compensation: Approximately $99,190/year, including tips. 
• Paid Time Off (PTO) 
• Vacation Days: 10 vacation days annually, accrued at a rate of 1 day per month after completing the probationary period. Vacation days are paid at your overtime rate of $24.75/hour for an 8-hour day, totaling $198/day. 
• Sick Days: 5 paid sick days annually, also compensated at your overtime rate. 
• Carryover: You may carry over unused PTO into the following year, up to a maximum of 40 hours (5 days). 
• Additional Perks:
• Access to certifications, tastings, and wine events.
• Opportunity to design a beverage program that integrates wine, sake, and non-alcoholic offerings.
• Collaboration with a dynamic and passionate team.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an innovative restaurant concept that values creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
• Take ownership of a wine program that integrates Japanese flavors and modern dining trends.
• Grow professionally through exposure to unique culinary and beverage experiences.

Featured in:

• NY Times
• Forbes 
• The Infatuation
• TimeOut
• Greenpointers