Junior Sommelier

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Junior Sommelier supports the beverage and restaurant team by assisting with wine service, maintaining the cellar, preparing wine lists, and recommending wines to guests under the guidance of senior sommeliers. Requirements typically include hospitality or wine-service experience, strong knowledge of wines and regions, excellent communication skills, professional presentation, and a genuine interest in luxury guest service. A wine qualification such as WSET is advantageous but may not be essential. The successful candidate is expected to provide attentive, accurate and personalised service, maintain cellar organisation and stock control, follow responsible-service procedures, and work flexibly across busy shifts, weekends and public holidays.

About the employer

The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne is part of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand within Marriott International. The brand is known for personalised service, refined dining, elegant accommodation and high standards of guest care. Its Melbourne operation combines premium hotel facilities with sophisticated restaurants, bars, events and wellness services, serving both international visitors and local guests. Employees work in a polished, multicultural environment where attention to detail, discretion, teamwork and genuine hospitality are highly valued. The Ritz-Carlton also provides access to Marriott’s international network, training resources and potential career opportunities across hotels and destinations worldwide. As a luxury property, the role is suited to candidates who enjoy professional beverage service, continuous learning and creating memorable experiences for discerning guests.

Working in Australia

Australia offers strong hospitality opportunities in hotels, restaurants, bars, resorts and tourism destinations, particularly in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and regional resort areas. The culture is generally informal, diverse and friendly, while workplaces expect punctuality, teamwork, safety awareness and professional customer service. Melbourne is known for its food and wine scene, arts, sports and changing weather. Living costs, especially rent, can be high, so budgeting is important. Most overseas workers need a visa, such as a Working Holiday visa for eligible nationalities, a temporary skilled visa, or employer sponsorship; conditions vary by occupation, age and passport. Applicants should check official Australian immigration requirements and obtain any required Responsible Service of Alcohol certification. Relocation planning should include accommodation, tax-file registration, banking, healthcare cover and funds for the initial settlement period.