Beer Cicerone Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of craft beverages, the importance of Beer Cicerones has never been more prominent.

As the craft beer industry continues to grow, so does the demand for knowledgeable experts who can select, pair, and serve these complex brews.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a Beer Cicerone?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this profession,
• A hiring manager trying to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of craft beer and its connoisseurs,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Beer Cicerone job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Beer Cicerone Duties and Responsibilities

Beer Cicerones are professionals with deep knowledge about beer, equivalent to a wine sommelier.

They possess an expertise in beer serving, storage, brewing, flavor profiles, beer pairing with food, and more.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Educating and advising customers about different beer styles, brewing methods, flavor profiles, and origins
• Serving beer according to proper techniques to ensure optimal flavor and presentation
• Conducting beer tastings and pairings, explaining in detail the flavors, ingredients, and history of each beer
• Recommending beer and food pairings to enhance customers’ dining experiences
• Maintaining quality control by checking the freshness of beer, proper storage, and proper cleaning of draught systems
• Understanding and complying with all federal, state, and local regulations that affect the selling and consumption of alcohol
• Developing and maintaining relationships with breweries and distributors to stay updated on the latest products and trends
• Training bar and restaurant staff on beer knowledge to ensure a high level of service

 

Beer Cicerone Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a knowledgeable Beer Cicerone to join our team.

The Beer Cicerone will be responsible for understanding, appreciating, and sharing knowledge about craft beers, ales, lagers, and other related beverages.

The responsibilities of a Beer Cicerone include recommending suitable beers to customers, pairing beers with food, and conducting brewery tours.

To be successful in this role, you should have a deep understanding of brewing techniques, beer styles, and beer service.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service by recommending suitable beers based on customers’ taste preferences
• Educate staff and customers about different beer types, brewing processes, and pairing with food
• Conduct brewery tours and educate visitors about the brewing process and different types of beers
• Manage beer inventory and ensure the quality of beer served
• Assist with beer and food pairing events
• Stay updated with the latest trends in the beer industry
• Maintain cleanliness of the bar area and beer serving equipment
• Comply with all relevant health department rules/regulations and all customer service guidelines

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Beer Cicerone or similar role in the hospitality industry
• Strong knowledge of beer styles, brewing processes, and beer service
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to recommend and pair beers with a variety of food items
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Certified Cicerone or Advanced Cicerone credential is a plus
• High school diploma or equivalent; certification in hospitality or field related to beer is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Beer Cicerone
• Work Environment: This job operates in a bar or restaurant setting. The role routinely requires the handling of alcoholic beverages and interaction with customers.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Bar Manager or Restaurant Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Beer Cicerone Do?

A Beer Cicerone is a certified professional within the beer industry, similar to a sommelier in the world of wine.

They possess a detailed understanding of beer styles, brewing, ingredients, and pairing beer with food.

Beer Cicerones are often employed in breweries, restaurants, pubs, and other establishments where beer is sold.

They guide customers in making beer choices that align with their preferences and the food they are ordering.

They are responsible for ensuring the quality of the beer served, which includes proper storage, temperature control, and serving techniques.

Beer Cicerones also conduct tastings and educational sessions, with the aim of enhancing consumers’ knowledge and appreciation of beer.

As part of their role, they may also train bar and restaurant staff on beer service principles, menu creation, and inventory management.

Beer Cicerones should be knowledgeable about the history and evolution of beer, beer styles around the world, the brewing process, and the ingredients used in brewing.

This comprehensive knowledge allows them to effectively communicate about beer with both consumers and professionals in the beer industry.

 

Beer Cicerone Qualifications and Skills

A Beer Cicerone should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that align with the intricate nature of the role, these include:

• Deep understanding and extensive knowledge about beer types, brewing processes, beer history, styles and flavors.
• Outstanding sensory skills to evaluate and differentiate the aroma, taste and visual aspects of beers.
• Excellent communication and teaching skills to educate customers about different beer types, brewing processes, and food pairings, and to effectively communicate with brewers and beer distributors.
• Exceptional customer service skills to handle customer queries, provide recommendations and create an engaging experience for customers.
• Ability to pair beers with various types of food to enhance the dining experience.
• Strong attention to detail for assessing the quality of beer and the ability to identify off-flavors or problems with the beer.
• Physical ability to handle kegs and cases of beer, and manual dexterity for handling and cleaning beer lines and taps.
• Knowledge about local and international beer laws and regulations, and ability to adhere to those while serving.

 

Beer Cicerone Experience Requirements

Becoming a Beer Cicerone typically involves a combination of formal education, self-study, and hands-on experience in the beer industry.

Entry-level Cicerone aspirants may have 1 to 2 years of experience in a brewery, bar, restaurant, or beer retail store.

This initial experience provides a foundation of knowledge about different beer styles, brewing processes, and beer service.

Those who have completed a Cicerone Certification Program or similar course have a strong theoretical understanding of beer and its components, although this is not a mandatory requirement.

A strong passion for beer, coupled with self-study of brewing literature, can suffice.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of beer varieties, brewing techniques, and beer-food pairing.

This experience can be gained through roles such as Brewmaster, Brewery Technician, Bartender, or Beer Store Manager.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the industry have usually developed refined tasting skills and broad knowledge of international beer styles.

They often have experience in beer education, either through teaching beer classes or conducting beer tastings.

These individuals may be ready for advanced roles within the beer industry, such as Beer Cicerone Consultant or Beer Program Manager.

 

Beer Cicerone Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Beer Cicerone requires both formal education and extensive practical experience.

One must start by passing the Certified Beer Server exam, which tests knowledge about beer styles, culture, brewing process, and ingredients.

This is the first level in the Cicerone Certification Program and is a prerequisite for the second level, Certified Cicerone.

The Certified Cicerone exam is a much more rigorous and thorough test of beer knowledge.

It includes a tasting portion, where one must be able to identify off-flavors, beer styles, and food pairings.

Aspiring Beer Cicerones need to familiarize themselves with a vast range of beer styles and brewing traditions.

They should have an in-depth understanding of brewing processes, ingredients, beer and food pairing principles, beer service, and even draught systems.

There are no strict educational requirements to become a Beer Cicerone, but a background in culinary arts, hospitality, or a related field may be beneficial.

Finally, hands-on experience in the beer industry, whether through home brewing, working in a brewery, or working in a bar or restaurant with a strong beer program, is vital to developing the practical skills and knowledge necessary to pass the Cicerone exams.

Beyond the Certified Cicerone level, individuals can continue to Advanced and Master Cicerone certifications, each requiring greater levels of knowledge and experience.

Continuing education and keeping up-to-date with evolving beer styles and brewing techniques is important for maintaining and advancing in this certification.

 

Beer Cicerone Salary Expectations

A Beer Cicerone, also known as a beer sommelier, earns an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary greatly depending on the level of certification, years of experience in the industry, location, and the type of establishment in which they work.

 

Beer Cicerone Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Beer Cicerone need?

To become a Beer Cicerone, one must pass the Certified Cicerone exam.

However, prior to taking this exam, they should first pass the Certified Beer Server exam, which serves as a prerequisite.

While a formal education isn’t necessary, taking courses or attending workshops focused on beer brewing, tasting, and serving can be beneficial.

Strong knowledge about various types of beers, brewing processes, ingredients, and food pairings is also essential.

 

What are the daily duties of a Beer Cicerone?

A Beer Cicerone’s day can involve a variety of tasks, including advising customers on beer selection, food pairing, and serving techniques.

They may also be involved in organizing beer tastings, training staff on beer knowledge and service, and maintaining the quality of beer storage and draught systems.

Additionally, they often keep up-to-date with the latest beer trends, new releases, and brewing techniques.

 

What qualities make a good Beer Cicerone?

A good Beer Cicerone has a passion for beer and a deep knowledge of different beer styles, brewing methods, and ingredients.

They should have excellent sensory skills to assess and describe beer flavors.

Strong communication skills are also essential, as they need to effectively share their knowledge with customers and staff.

Additionally, good Beer Cicerones should have the ability to pair beers with a wide variety of foods.

 

What should you look for in a Beer Cicerone resume?

When looking at a Beer Cicerone’s resume, check for certification from the Cicerone Certification Program.

Look for experience in the beer industry, such as working in breweries, beer distribution, or beer retail.

Strong knowledge about various types of beers, brewing processes, and beer service should be evident.

Any additional skills or experience in customer service, staff training, and event planning can also be beneficial.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Beer Cicerone?

Finding a Beer Cicerone can be a challenge because it is a specialized role with a rigorous certification process.

However, with the increasing popularity of craft beer, more people are pursuing this career.

By offering competitive pay, opportunities for continued education, and a work environment that fosters a love for beer, you can attract qualified Beer Cicerones to your establishment.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of being a beer cicerone.

Surprised?

It’s not just about drinking beer.

It’s about curating a journey of flavours, one pint at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive beer cicerone job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Quench your thirst for knowledge with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every pint is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s craft that story. Together.

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