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Chef Jobs in Kitty Hawk, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC

$46K - $62K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Sous Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and ...

Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Sous Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and ...

Executive Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America's story on the finest ...

Executive Chef

Coinjock, NC

$66K - $91K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing immersive travel, exceptional service, and world-class cuisine while sharing America's story on the finest ...

Executive Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Executive Sous Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our ...

Executive Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Executive Sous Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our ...

Lead Line Cook

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related items that are produced in the galley in accordance with the menu matrix as well as any special requests ...

Lead Line Cook

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related items that are produced in the galley in accordance with the menu matrix as well as any special requests ...

Cook 1

Corolla, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key Responsibilities * Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and ...

Cook 1

Corolla, NC · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting Structure • Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key Responsibilities * Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and ...

Cook 1

Corolla, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Reporting Structure Reports to the Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef or Executive Chef Key Responsibilities * Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and store ...

Cook

Kitty Hawk, NC · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Culinary Supervisor / Sous Chef / Executive Sous Chef / Executive Chef Purpose : Prepare and execute menu items at The Lifesaving Station (LSS) with consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to ...

Cook

Kitty Hawk, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Culinary Supervisor / Sous Chef / Executive Sous Chef / Executive Chef Purpose : Prepare and execute menu items at The Lifesaving Station (LSS) with consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to ...

Pastry Cook - Theodosia

Kitty Hawk, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Culinary Supervisor / Chef de Cuisine Purpose: Prepare and execute menu items at Theodosia with consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to culinary and sanitation standards, supporting the ...

Cook - Theodosia

Kitty Hawk, NC

$12.75 - $17/hr

Culinary Supervisor / Chef de Cuisine Purpose: Prepare and execute menu items at Theodosia with consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to culinary and sanitation standards, supporting the ...

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Chef information

See Kitty Hawk, NC salary details

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How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in Kitty Hawk, NC is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chef do?

A chef is a professional cook who is responsible for preparing meals, developing menus, and overseeing kitchen operations in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments. Chefs ensure food quality, safety, and presentation standards are met, and often manage other kitchen staff. Their duties may include ordering ingredients, maintaining inventory, and creating new recipes. Chefs may specialize in specific types of cuisine or cooking techniques. They play a key role in delivering a memorable dining experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef, you need strong culinary skills, creativity in menu development, and comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards, typically supported by culinary school training or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and food hygiene certifications (such as ServSafe) is highly valuable. Exceptional organizational ability, teamwork, and leadership are critical soft skills for managing kitchen staff and maintaining a positive work environment. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality dishes efficiently, ensuring kitchen safety, and running a successful culinary operation.

What are common challenges chefs face in maintaining consistency across dishes and shifts?

Chefs often encounter challenges in ensuring that every dish meets the restaurant’s quality and presentation standards, particularly when managing a team with varying skill levels or during busy service periods. Maintaining consistency requires strong communication, standardized recipes, and rigorous training for all kitchen staff. Additionally, chefs must monitor ingredient quality and adapt quickly to supply changes, all while leading by example to uphold the restaurant’s reputation. Overcoming these challenges is key to delivering a reliable dining experience and building trust with patrons.

What is the difference between Chef vs Cook?

AspectChefCook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or certifications often preferredMinimal formal training, on-the-job experience common
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsVaries from home kitchens to restaurants, catering
Job ResponsibilitiesMenu planning, supervising kitchen staff, quality controlFood preparation, cooking, basic kitchen tasks
Industry UsageHigh-end restaurants, culinary institutionsWidespread across all food service settings

While both chefs and cooks work in kitchens and prepare food, chefs typically have formal training, oversee kitchen operations, and work in professional or upscale environments. Cooks usually focus on food preparation and cooking tasks, often with less formal education, and work in a variety of settings. The role of a chef involves leadership and menu development, whereas a cook primarily executes recipes and prepares dishes.

Is 25 too late to become a chef?

Becoming a chef at 25 is not too late, as many chefs start their careers in their twenties or later. Success in the culinary industry depends on skills, training, and experience, which can be gained through culinary schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training at any age.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Kitty Hawk, NC?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Kitty Hawk, NC are:

What cities near Kitty Hawk, NC are hiring for Chef jobs?

Cities near Kitty Hawk, NC with the most Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef job openings in Kitty Hawk, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,706 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
American Cruise Lines
Travel Arrangement Services • 201 - 500 employees

$46K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Sous Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Sous Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America’s rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
Exceptional cuisine is prepared by chefs who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are inspired by regional and local specialties. Working in the kitchen, you will be an integral part of the culinary team. Your goal will be to utilize the ingredients provided to create a unique array of dishes that are full of delicious flavor. Our Sous Chefs are involved with all aspects of food production including breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant, and have primary responsibility for the quality of café food and hors d’oeuvres served. Ensuring consistency in culinary excellence across the vessel your primary responsibility. You will work closely with other members of the culinary team every day to ensure that the kitchen operations run smoothly and that all service provided to our guests is flawless.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Work directly with the Executive Chef to produce diversified menus for our guests using fresh ingredients.
  • Work directly overseeing the culinary team to produce delicious and presentable café, buffet, and hors d’oeuvres food, maintaining high guest scores in these areas.
  • Ensure the same level of world class culinary skill and presentation served in the main restaurant is consistent with all food served throughout the ship.
  • Organize the work in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently.
  • Produce high quality dishes that follow the established menu choices.
  • Adhere to all guest dietary requests.
  • Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours.
  • Make sure that the hygiene and food safety standards are placed as a top priority throughout all stages of food preparation.
  • Ensure that all meals are prepared as quickly and deliciously as possible.
  • Enforce food and safety standards.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship.
  • ServSafe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
  • Familiar with food safety standards.
  • Must possess problem solving skills, self-motivation, and organization.
  • An effective leader who can effectively control time management.
  • Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Complete criminal background check.
  • Training and Teaching experience.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6 to 8 weeks onboard followed by 1 to 2 weeks off.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to multi-task, take direction, and be a team player.
  • Ability to work with composure under pressure.
  • Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes and adhere to directions.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.