Oxford Exchange - Sommelier

Job Description

The Sommelier is responsible for ensuring the quality and consistency of the restaurant’s beverage program, enhancing service standards, and educating staff. This role works closely with the management team to continuously elevate the guest experience.

• Ensure departmental logistics run efficiently by monitoring systems and suggesting improvements (e.g., wine sales strategies, cellar organization, restocking processes, delivery coordination).
• Assist with and lead wine training for new and existing staff; develop training materials.
• Oversee wine deliveries, BIN # assignments, and proper storage and organization of the wine cellar.

• Provide wine expertise and guide guests in their selections; maintain a visible presence on the floor.
• Present and recommend wines to guests, executing wine service with precision.
• Support dining room staff with wine‑related and general service issues.
• Lead by example in personalizing service—use guest names, build rapport with regulars, and ensure satisfaction by engaging with every table.
• Build guest loyalty by maintaining wine preference notes (with host team support); record all notes in the Open Table database.

• Ensure wine quality is consistently high.
• Monitor wine glassware and decanter quality and par levels.
• Train staff on proper bottle presentation, decanting, and pouring techniques; ensure correct terminology is used.
• Conduct daily pre‑shift tastings and briefings; schedule monthly wine classes.
• Communicate wine outages (86s), low stock, and new wine information to staff.

• Maintain a robust inventory system to track bottle movement across storage areas.
• Conduct full liquor and wine inventory on the last day of each month.
• Perform monthly beverage inventory and update internal wine sheets after weekly counts.
• Ensure wine accuracy across all menus, wine lists, and POS systems.
• Communicate wine changes and pricing updates to the corporate wine and design teams for menu revisions.
• Ensure by‑the‑glass menus reflect current offerings.
• Update POS keys for wines linked to active inventory numbers; deactivate and remove discontinued wines from POS.
• In the absence of a receiver, manage all wine‑related tasks including deliveries, invoices, and storage.
• Maximize beverage program profitability—propose promotions, train staff on upselling, and foster guest loyalty through table engagement.
• Take ownership of beverage inventory results.
• Assist with beverage purchasing as needed.
• Enforce all federal, state, and local alcohol laws, including minimum drinking age and TIPs training.
• Maintain safety and security for employees, guests, and company assets.

You are expected to stay current on industry and wine trends. Your educational progress will be reviewed regularly. The company will support relevant educational goals with prior management approval.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Sommelier role.
• WSET Certification Level 1 or 2 required;
  Level 3 preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to standards.
• Excellent communication skills and a positive, team‑oriented attitude.
• Strong time management skills and ability to perform under pressure in a high‑volume environment.

• Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy items (e.g., wine cases, furniture) weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and moving throughout the facility.
• Manual dexterity, good vision, and hand‑eye coordination for handling wine service tools and equipment.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach wine storage and service areas.
• Physical stamina to meet the demands of a fast‑paced work environment.

Oxford Commons is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive, people‑first culture. We do not discriminate on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or any other status covered under applicable law.