Asst Sommelier

Department: Beverage Services

Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract

Reporting To: Sommelier

Description

Seabourn Cruise Line invites applications for the role of Assistant Sommelier, a key position that contributes to our reputation for excellence in beverage service and wine sales across our dining venues. The successful candidate will be instrumental in managing operations for dining outlets serving up to 450 guests, ensuring each service is executed flawlessly.

The Assistant Sommelier is pivotal in maintaining the seamless operation of our outlets, taking full ownership and making strategic decisions to elevate the guest experience. This role is central to our mission of delivering an unparalleled travel experience, and the Assistant Sommelier will lead by example, instilling Seabourn’s vision and values in their team.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Sommelier will report directly to the Sommelier, with additional support from the Public Rooms Manager. This leadership role encompasses the oversight of a dedicated team, including 10 Bar Waiters, 3 Bartenders, and 2 Utility Staff, ensuring professional standards are met and upheld.

We seek a passionate individual with a commitment to service excellence and a flair for creating memorable guest interactions. If you are ready to step into this dynamic role and join our world-class team, we would be delighted to welcome your application.

Key Responsibilities

• Uphold the highest level of guest satisfaction and service procedures.
• Adhere to the Environmental Compliance Plan (ECP) in all hotel operations.
• Drive and maximize beverage sales; supervise wine service in dining outlets.
• Collaborate with the Sommelier to enhance wine sales and support the Seabourn Vintage program.
• Manage beverage inventory in compliance with company policies.
• Deliver prompt, attentive, and courteous service to guests at outlets and events.
• Maintain a proactive approach to guest service and satisfaction.
• Possess extensive knowledge of complimentary wine and spirits offered to guests.
• Handle all sales transactions with accuracy and integrity.
• Contribute to achieving annual bar score goals in guest feedback.
• Serve drinks in accordance with Seabourn’s recipes, standards, and measurements, with a focus on upselling premium products.
• Participate in the Seabourn Name Recognition program and related assessments.
• Perform cleaning duties and maintain areas in line with public health standards, including SMS 2008 USPH/CAPH/UKPH, ISO 14001, and other international regulations.

Qualifications

Education:

• Possession of a High School diploma or an equivalent qualification is required.
• A comprehensive understanding of wines, encompassing both Old World and New World regions, is essential.

Experience:

• Demonstrable experience with beverage operations and service is mandatory.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• A thorough knowledge of the U.S. Public Health (USPH) standards and other international public health regulations is imperative.
• Candidates must partake in the company’s Basic Food Hygiene training biennially, securing a minimum score of 80% to ensure compliance and proficiency.

The ideal applicant will have hands-on experience in the beverage service industry and a strong commitment to health and safety standards and a deep appreciation for wine culture.

Physical Demands & Travel Requirements

Physical Demands: 

• Candidates must possess the physical ability to perform tasks requiring bending, climbing, repetitive motion, and heavy lifting.
• Physical fitness is essential for the safety and performance of onboard duties.

Travel Documentation:

• A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
• A seaman’s book issued by the flag state.
• A marine fitness medical certificate approved by the flag state.
• A United States C1/D visa.
• A minimum score of 80% on the English Marlin test.
• A pre-employment medical examination.

Work Conditions:

• Employment on a cruise ship entails longer working hours and intense work due to continuous guest interaction.
• Flexibility in work hours is required, with adherence to the Maritime Labour Convention of 2006.
• Compliance with the Master’s standing orders and respectful conduct towards fellow crew members is mandatory.

This position demands a professional who can thrive in a dynamic maritime environment, ensuring safety, compliance, and the highest standards of service.