1

Coast Guard Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2nd Cook

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate * Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) * Endorsement of U.S. Coast ...

Cook (Vessel)

Golden Meadow, LA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Hold a valid license by the US Coast Guard. * The cook may be concerned with only one phase of duties, such as maintenance of the ship's gear and decks or watch duties. Emergency Response Functions ...

Cook (Vessel)

LA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Hold a valid license by the US Coast Guard. * The cook may be concerned with only one phase of duties, such as maintenance of the ship's gear and decks or watch duties. Emergency Response Functions ...

Cook (Vessel)

Golden Meadow, LA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Hold a valid license by the US Coast Guard. * The cook may be concerned with only one phase of duties, such as maintenance of the ship's gear and decks or watch duties. Emergency Response Functions ...

The position functions as an able-bodied seaman and relief cook aboard the DPS, Alaska Wildlife ... S. Coast Guard 100-ton Master's license Must have the physical capacity for arduous work and ...

The position functions as an able-bodied seaman and relief cook aboard the DPS, Alaska Wildlife ... S Coast Guard 100-ton Master's license Must have the physical capacity for arduous work and ...

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Description Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a cook to work aboard the Environmental ... Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an Ordinary Seaman or higher ...

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$322.13/day

Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking a cook to work aboard the Environmental Protection ... Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an Ordinary Seaman or higher ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Coast Guard Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do coast guard cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for coast guard cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a Coast Guard Cook?

To become a Coast Guard Cook, applicants must meet basic enlistment requirements, complete basic training, and then attend culinary training specific to the Coast Guard. Prior experience in cooking or food service, along with good physical fitness, is beneficial. Once qualified, they serve aboard Coast Guard vessels or at shore facilities, working in a team environment and maintaining food safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Coast Guard cook position, and why are they important?

A Coast Guard Cook must have strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and relevant food handler certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to work well under pressure are key soft skills in this role. These abilities are vital to ensuring nutritious, safe, and timely meal preparation for Coast Guard personnel, especially in demanding maritime environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Coast Guard cook?

Coast Guard Cooks are responsible for planning, preparing, and serving balanced meals for crew members onboard ships or at shore facilities. Their daily tasks include menu planning, managing food inventory and supplies, maintaining cleanliness and food safety in the galley, and sometimes training or supervising assistants. They often work closely with other crew members to accommodate dietary needs and support overall morale by providing nutritious, enjoyable meals. The role involves working a set schedule—often in shifts—and demands flexibility, as cooks may need to prepare meals during irregular hours or under challenging sea conditions.

What is a Coast Guard cook?

A Coast Guard Cook, also known as a Food Service Specialist, is responsible for preparing meals for crew members aboard Coast Guard vessels and shore stations. They ensure that personnel receive nutritious and well-balanced meals, manage food supplies, and maintain kitchen equipment. Cooks follow military food preparation standards, adhere to sanitation regulations, and may also assist with budgeting and inventory. This role is essential for maintaining crew morale and operational efficiency.

How much do Coast Guard cooks get paid?

Coast Guard cooks earn an annual salary that typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on rank, experience, and years of service. They receive additional benefits such as housing, medical care, and retirement options, and may work in various environments aboard ships or at shore stations. Pay is structured according to the federal pay scale for military personnel.

What are the most commonly searched types of Coast Guard Cook jobs?

The most popular types of Coast Guard Cook jobs are:

What states have the most Coast Guard Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Coast Guard Cook jobs include:

Infographic showing various Coast Guard Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

2nd Cook

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance – Galley’ crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level position assisting the Chief Steward in all aspects of Galley Department operations. This can include meal preparation, cleaning/sanitation, stocking, rotation, light hotel services, and oversight of vessel guests.

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance’ crewmember may work in either the deck, engine, or galley department as appropriate. This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential.

Direct Supervisor – Chief Steward

Primary Responsibilities:

Second Cook (and Porter as applicable):

  • Assist in the preparation of daily meals, night lunch, and salad bar
  • Manage bakery needs of the galley department
  • Assist with cleaning/sanitation of all Galley spaces
  • Assist with stocking and rotation of galley provisions and consumables
  • Oversee light hotel services (i.e. Captain quarters, guest quarters, and linen management)
  • Oversee guest/owner spaces for cleaning and stocking
  • Oversee company guests aboard vessels to ensure safety and comfort
  • Any other duties as requested by the Chief Steward
  • Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill

Credential, License / Endorsement, and Certificate Requirements:

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
  • Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Endorsement of U.S. Coast Guard as Ordinary Seaman AND Food Handler (F.H.)
  • Certificate of completion for First Aid / CPR / AED course
  • Certificate of completion for Servsafe (Food Handler)
  • Minimum 5-year company (or Union) physical noting “Fit for Duty” status