Senior Server/Junior Sommelier

WHO WE ARE

A member of Relais & Châteaux with Three MICHELIN Keys, Fogo Island Inn is a 29-room luxury hotel, built on principles of sustainability and respect for nature and culture. The Inn is a community asset, owned by the charity Shorefast, and 100 percent of operating surpluses are reinvested into Shorefast’s work to secure a resilient future for Fogo Island.

Our work has garnered significant international interest including a feature on 60 Minutes and in The New York Times’ 52 Places for a Changed World. The mission of Shorefast is to build, learn, and share economic development practices that catalyse the assets of local places, starting with Fogo Island.

Learn more about us: fogoislandinn.ca

THE OPPORTUNITY

As Senior Server/Junior Sommelier you bring a commitment to ensuring exceptional dining experiences. You have knowledge of front of house food and beverage service standards, dining operations, and the creation of guest experiences.  You can provide guidance through wine selection and are able to provide personalized pairings that compliment varying menu offerings. You are able to lead service by table, work collaboratively with the dining team and enable a smooth flow of service execution in the dining room.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Provide outstanding service to guests, ensuring all needs are met in a professional and courteous manner.

• Mentor and support junior servers, assisting them with problem-solving and providing guidance on best practices in service.
• Assist in the management of the Inn’s wine list including the sourcing and administrative requirements associated with pricing and presentation.

• In the absence of the Sommelier, serve and educate guests on our Fogo beverage culture.

• In collaboration with the Sommelier, provide expert wine pairing recommendations to guests based on their meal choices and personal preferences, enhancing their dining experience.
• Take and deliver orders accurately, working closely with kitchen and bar staff to ensure timely delivery of food and beverages.
• Utilize extensive knowledge of the menu and beverages to upsell and recommend items that enhance the guest experience.
• Handle any guest complaints or concerns efficiently and professionally, escalating issues to management as needed.
• Oversee table setups, reservations, and seating arrangements, ensuring all dining areas are clean, organized, and well-maintained.
• Handle end-of-day reporting and assist with maintaining inventory levels for service supplies and beverages.
• Support the execution of special events and private dining, coordinating with the management team to ensure seamless service.
• Other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• A minimum of 3 years experience as a server, in a similar establishment.
• Certification from a recognized sommelier program (e.g., Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET 2) required. A combination of equivalent work experience and training may be considered.
• Formal food and beverage training or certification from an accredited hospitality school preferred.
• Experience working in Michelin-starred or awarded restaurants preferred.
• Strong ability to handle high-pressure environments with grace and maintain a positive attitude in all guest interactions
• Proficient in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by the business.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive wages
• Access to an employee work-out room, to support personal well-being
• An engaged, highly supportive, and collaborative environment that encourages creativity and curiosity
• The opportunity to work in a thriving social enterprise 
• Continued learning and professional development training
• Allowances for travel to Fogo Island may be available
• Housing/accommodations assistance may be available