Head Sommelier - Lead Wine Program & Guest Experience

Gracious Hospitality Management; New York (NY); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision benefits

Commuter Benefits

Paid Time Off

Referral Bonus Program

Career Advancement Opportunities

Employee Recognition Awards

Job summary

COQODAQ, a new concept from Michelin-starred COTE, seeks a Head Sommelier in New York to lead the wine program, train the FOH team, and drive wine sales for exceptional guest experiences. You will oversee the wine list, pairings, events, and beverage programming, collaborating across departments to ensure service excellence.

The role demands expert wine knowledge, leadership, and outstanding guest service. NY pay range is $17 per hour; applicants should be flexible for evenings and weekends;

Qualifications

• Must read, speak, understand, and follow written directions.
• Must be reachable by email and able to communicate via phone.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Positive, results-oriented, team-player mentality.
• Ability to perform duties under pressure in a high-paced environment.
• Knowledge of workplace safety procedures and local Department of Health standards.
• Food Handler’s Certification or the ability to obtain.
• Able to work a flexible schedule including weekends, nights, and holidays; legal age to serve alcohol.
• Familiarity with restaurant management software (POS, reservations, inventory, MS Office, Google Workspace).

Responsibilities

• Act as a dining room captain during service.
• Serve as point person on wine service protocols when the Wine Manager is absent.
• Coach service teams on wine service techniques and SOPs.
• Lead wine knowledge training and COQODAQ College sessions.
• Build relationships with customers and wine lovers.
• Ensure wines are stored, presented, and served to standards.
• Recommend wines based on price, taste, and food pairing.
• Oversee wine storage and service.
• Maintain knowledge of COQODAQ wine and food menu items.
• Accurately take and enter orders; coordinate with servers and chefs.
• Use POS and restaurant tech to account for sales.
• Address and resolve customer issues with professionalism.
• Maintain cleanliness and service tools.
• Attend scheduled shifts and train new staff.
• Perform administrative duties and assist with beverage programming for events.
• Oversee wine list updates and accuracy.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Team player mentality

Customer service

Ability to work under pressure

Reading and following directions

Education

WSET Level 2 or CMS Certified Sommelier

Tools

POS systems

Reservations management

Inventory management

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Job description

COQODAQ, a new concept from Michelin-starred COTE, seeks a Head Sommelier in New York to lead the wine program, train the FOH team, and drive wine sales for exceptional guest experiences. You will oversee the wine list, pairings, events, and beverage programming, collaborating across departments to ensure service excellence.

The role demands expert wine knowledge, leadership, and outstanding guest service. NY pay range is $17 per hour; applicants should be flexible for evenings and weekends;