sommelier/FOH

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Sommelier and FOH (Front of House) to join the team at Gaea in Fitzroy, Victoria. This is a full-time position that combines your passion for wine and hospitality service excellence. As a Sommelier,you will be the face of our establishment, delivering exceptional service whilst curating and recommending our wine selection to enhance our guests' dining experiences. This role is integral to creating memorable moments for our patrons and maintaining Gaea's reputation for outstanding hospitality.

Key responsibilities

• Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings tailored to individual guest preferences and menu selections
• Manage front-of-house operations including greeting guests, seating arrangements, and ensuring timely table service
• Train and mentor waiting staff on wine knowledge, service standards, and product offerings
• Maintain detailed knowledge of the wine list, including origins, characteristics, and optimal serving conditions
• Conduct wine tastings and educational sessions for staff and guests to enhance understanding and appreciation
• Monitor wine inventory, stock rotation, and liaise with management regarding ordering and pricing
• Deliver professional, courteous service whilst maintaining attention to detail and high hygiene standards
• Handle guest inquiries and complaints professionally, ensuring resolution and satisfaction
• Assist with wine list development and curation to align with seasonal menus and guest preferences
• Contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Gaea's commitment to hospitality excellence

What we're looking for

• Formal sommelier certification or equivalent wine education and qualification
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in front-of-house hospitality or sommelier roles within fine dining or upmarket restaurant environments
• Extensive knowledge of wine regions, varieties, production methods, and food and wine pairing principles
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage guests at all levels
• Strong organisational abilities and attention to detail in managing multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proficiency in point-of-sale (POS) systems and hospitality management software
• Ability to work effectively within a team whilst maintaining high standards of professionalism
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required
• Current food safety certification or willingness to obtain
• Preferred: Experience in Australian wine regions and emerging wine markets; additional language skills

About us

Gaea is a hospitality establishment dedicated to delivering exceptional dining and service experiences in Fitzroy. We celebrate culinary excellence, carefully curated wine selections, and a commitment to creating warm, welcoming environments for our guests. Our team is passionate about hospitality and takes pride in every interaction with our patrons. We foster a culture of continuous learning, teamwork, and professional development where our staff are valued and supported in their growth.

What we offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Ongoing professional development opportunities, including wine education and hospitality training
• Staff discounts on dining and beverages
• A supportive and collaborative work environment with experienced hospitality professionals
• Opportunities for career progression within the hospitality sector
• Flexible scheduling where possible to support work-life balance

Apply now

If you are an experienced Sommelier/FOH professional passionate about wine and hospitality, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, cover letter, and details of your wine certifications to apply for this exciting opportunity with Gaea.