Sommelier

  • Alinea
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Full Time
Required Years of Experience

2 years

Job Details

Alinea is looking for a full-time Sommelier to join our team! The Sommelier is an important part of the team, using their extensive knowledge to educate staff, guests, and elevate the wine program. This is a full time position, paid hourly, and candidates must be willing to work 40+ hours, 5 days a week.

A concept founded by Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas, Alinea has been globally praised for its molecular gastronomy techniques and innovative approach to modernist cuisine, pushing boundaries in a multi-sensory dining experience. It is one of only 13 restaurants in the U.S. to earn the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating. It has also been named the Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler, the Best Restaurant in North America by The Worlds 50 Best Restaurants, and the Best Restaurant in the U.S. by Gourmet and Business Insider. Driven by the notion of doing the unexpected, guests can be assured to leave the dining room feeling inspired.

Responsibilities

  • Receives and stocks wine orders
  • Determines and maintain pars for wine BTG and pairing selections
  • Creates and participates in staff wine tastings and educational opportunities
  • Collaborates with wine and culinary teams on wine pairing selections
  • Provides wine and beverage service to guests in a fast paced, menu driven environment
  • Participates in daily service

Requirements

  • 2 or more years experience as a sommelier, captain, or server in a fine dining establishment
  • Level 2 (+) certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers, or equivalent certification and/or corresponding knowledge/experience
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, chef-driven environment
  • High attention to detail
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to carry a tray with food and/or drinks
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
  • Thinks clearly, quickly, and maintains concentration during high pressure situations

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to work on your feet for at least 8 hours
  • Must be able to move, pull or lift at least 35 pounds
  • Must be able to climb stairs multiple times per shift

Benefits

  • Competitive hourly wage at $24.50 - $25.00/hour
  • Medical, vision, dental and life benefits available on the 1st month following full-time employment
    • 50% company contribution to single HMO during the first 2 years of full-time employment, 100% contribution available after 2 years
  • Paid time off
  • 401(K) with a company match of up to 4% of deferred earnings
  • CTA/Ventra discount available after 1 month of full-time employment
  • Employee Dining Discount, 20% to any Alinea Group restaurant
  • Referral Bonus Program available

The Alinea Group is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, age, veteran status, life experiences and ideas. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and strive to provide an inclusive culture that embraces diversity.

Must be eligible to legally work in the United States. We use E-Verify.

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($24.50 - $25.00)

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Paid Time Off, 401k, Commuter Benefits, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts

Required Skills

Wine Service

Wine Knowledge and Expertise

Team Development and Training

Educational Skills for Staff and Guests

Wine Knowledge

Organizational Skills for Wine Orders and Inventory

Food and Beverage Pairing

Creativity in Wine Pairing Selections

Inventory Management

Customer Service Skills in a Fine Dining Context

Service Procedures

Team Collaboration With Culinary Staff

Glassware Knowledge

Ability to Handle Multiple Tasks in a Busy Environment

Fine Dining Service

Physical stamina for long shifts

Problem Solving Skills Under Pressure

Adaptability to Changing Situations

Attention to Guest Experience

Knowledge of Wine Tasting Techniques

Ability to Educate Others About Wine

Time Management Skills

Ability to Lift and Move Heavy Items

Read more

Gallery Alinea
Job ID: 477958625
Originally Posted on: 5/21/2025

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