Sommelier

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking to hire a passionate Sommelier!

WS New York is a restaurant and private club concept in Hudson Yards. WS New York has unparalleled access to the finest wines and spirits, world-class dining, and one-of-a-kind cultural events. This will be a truly unique destination bound to become one of the world’s most coveted private clubs and restauranThis is an incredible opportunity to be a part of a team of passionate hospitality professionals. At WS New York, our company culture supports the growth and development of our team members and provides opportunities for education and advancement in the hospitality business. We are extremely excited to build this team and create memorable experiences for all.

Role Summary

As a key member of the WS team, A WS New York Sommelier should be fully aware of their position within the team as a leader and role model. The primary responsibility of a WS Sommelier is to provide an exceptional wine experience while ensuring the WS New York wine standards are being adhered to during service. Sommeliers will be recommending, describing, and serving fine and rare wines to the highest standard. Sommeliers will feel competent in recommending exceptional food and wine pairing and show excellent time management skills in ensuring the order of service is followed. Strong knowledge of the menu and bar drinks as well as an understanding of the responsibilities of other WS team members is key in providing world-class wine service. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome, comfortable, important and relaxed while exceeding expectations of all.

Key Responsibilities
● Maintain a high level of hospitality and professionalism with each member, team member, and guest.
● Protect the privacy of our members, teammates, and guests at all times.
● Act as a role model for servers, server assistants, and the bar team in providing outstanding wine service and on-shift behavior.
● Execute outstanding wine service tasks in a professional and elegant manner – including decanting, pouring, using necessary tools to open old and rare bottles.
● Maintain a ‘keen eye’ to ensure glassware, tools, service and beverages are of a WS New York standard.
● Be ready for service anywhere in WS New York and willing to provide outstanding service.
● Attend all scheduled Sommelier and team meetings.
● Arrive to each shift ‘floor ready’ – impeccably groomed, maintain good hygiene, upright posture and have required uniform and wine tools.
● Prepare and present informative wine classes, for both the Dining Room and Sommelier teams.
● Develop and retain an overview knowledge of all food, (non-wine) beverage, and dietary restrictions to answer member and guest questions.
● Offer recommendations, take orders, and develop relationships with members and guests to deliver personal and notable experiences.
● Work seamlessly and communicate with Managers, Servers and Server Assistants to assure members and guests have a valuable overall experience.
● Execute cellar maintenance, appropriate duties and side work, as assigned by the 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 producer events when appropriate.
● Attend Food and Team training opportunities.

Requirements
● 4+ years of sommelier experience in a Fine Dining and/or high-volume establishment
● Positive attitude, a sense of responsibility and ownership of the position
● Appetite for creating memorable moments of hospitality for our guests
● Desire to learn and grow within the position and restaurant
● Exceptional wine knowledge and service skills
● Knowledge and passion for beer, coffee and craft cocktails
● Understanding of classic food, wine service, pairings and service ware
● Experience with POS system
● Team-oriented with a strong sense of punctuality and reliability
● Demonstrate a sense of urgency and strong work ethic in order to keep up with high volume
● Ability to navigate a fast-paced environment while being respectful professionalism and genuine attitude towards members and colleagues
● Must be impeccably groomed, maintain good hygiene, upright posture and have required uniform and tools
● Must display the image and philosophy set forth by the owner and the restaurant management team
● Fluent in both written and spoken English
● Be able to safely lift and easily maneuver plates, cases of water, chairs, linen and dining room tables. Up to 50 pounds
● Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 8 hours)
● Must be comfortable with repetitive motions (such as walking, bending & standing)
● WS New York enforces a zero-tolerance policy with regards to discrimination and/or harassment in any form

In accordance with the NYC Covid-19 Vaccine Mandate, all food establishment employees are required to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination. 

WS New York provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.