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Cruise Kitchen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Saint Francisville, LA · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

New Madrid, MO · On-site

$61K - $84K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Alpena, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Juneau, AK · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Memphis, TN

$69K - $95K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

New London, CT · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Holland, MI · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Rocky River, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

American Cruise Lines

Executive Chef

Maysville, KY · On-site

$58K - $80K/yr

This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen. At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values- Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Davenport, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add ... Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently. * Produce high ...

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Cruise Kitchen information

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$8

$15

$19

How much do cruise kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise kitchen in the United States is $15.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cruise kitchen?

A Cruise Kitchen, also known as the galley, is the area on a cruise ship where all meals are prepared for passengers and crew. The cruise kitchen is staffed by chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants who work together to create a variety of dishes, often catering to thousands of guests daily. They are responsible for maintaining food safety standards, prepping ingredients, cooking meals, and sometimes accommodating special dietary requests. The cruise kitchen operates around the clock to ensure food is available for multiple dining venues onboard.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work in a cruise kitchen?

To thrive as a Cruise Kitchen staff member, you need culinary expertise, food safety knowledge, and often formal culinary education or relevant certifications. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment, HACCP food safety systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for working efficiently in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. These skills ensure high-quality dining experiences, adherence to safety standards, and seamless kitchen operations aboard a cruise ship.

What challenges do kitchen staff face on a cruise ship, and how can they prepare for them?

Kitchen staff on cruise ships often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, adapting to international menus, and maintaining high food safety standards while at sea. They must also manage large volumes of meal preparation for hundreds or thousands of guests, often across multiple dining venues. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as kitchen staff rotate through different stations and shifts. Preparing by gaining experience in high-volume kitchens, familiarizing yourself with maritime safety protocols, and demonstrating flexibility will help you succeed in this unique environment.

What is the difference between Cruise Kitchen vs Cruise Line Cook?

AspectCruise KitchenCruise Line Cook
CertificationsFood safety, HACCPFood safety, HACCP
Work EnvironmentShip kitchens, galleyShip kitchens, galley
Industry UsageBroad term for kitchen staff on shipsSpecific role as a cook on cruise ships
Job FocusKitchen operations, food prepCooking, food preparation

The term "Cruise Kitchen" refers broadly to the entire kitchen staff working on a cruise ship, including various roles such as chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants. "Cruise Line Cook" specifically describes a cook responsible for preparing meals onboard. While both roles work in ship kitchens and require similar certifications, the Cruise Line Cook is a specific job title focused on cooking duties, whereas Cruise Kitchen is a general term for the entire culinary team.

More about Cruise Kitchen jobs

What states have the most Cruise Kitchen jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cruise Kitchen jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Cruise Kitchen jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cruise Kitchen jobs are:

Cruise Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Kitchen job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,047 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Executive Chef

American Cruise Lines

Saint Francisville, LA • On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

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 ships in America. We offer over 50 itineraries across America's breathtaking waterways, including New England, the Southeast, the Mississippi River, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Great Lakes, and more.

We believe every meal should be a memorable event. That’s why we’re searching for talented, driven Executive Chefs to join our shipboard team for the 2026 cruising season. If you're ready to lead a high-performing galley crew, craft regionally inspired dishes, and provide exceptional guest service, all while traveling the country, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.

As Executive Chef, you’ll be responsible for delivering an unforgettable culinary experience—planning, preparing, and presenting elevated cuisine that reflects the flavors of each region we visit. You’ll mentor and lead your team with professionalism and passion, ensuring every dish meets our high standards of taste and presentation. We're seeking chefs who are not only technically skilled but also natural leaders who thrive in fast-paced, team-oriented environments. This is a dynamic, rewarding role for those who want to reach beyond the four walls of a traditional kitchen.

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:

  • Leading all meal preparation for both guests and crew onboard.
  • Executing regionally inspired menus using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Coaching and managing a galley team of 6-10 in a hands-on environment.
  • Ensuring kitchen operations meet FDA, sanitation, and safety standards.
  • Overseeing food inventory, portion control, and waste reduction.
  • Adapting quickly to last-minute changes while maintaining a calm, can-do approach.
  • Providing an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.

Qualifications:

  • 6–8+ years’ experience in full-service resorts, hotels, country clubs, or banquet settings.
  • ServSafe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and training abilities.
  • Proven knowledge of FDA food safety standards and kitchen best practices.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
  • A hands-on, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to kitchen leadership.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.
  • TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) is required.
  • 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 working and living onboard the ship / 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 speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes and adhere to directions.
  • Ability to multi-task, take direction, and be a team player.
  • Ability to work with composure under pressure.
  • 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.‎
*Jobs 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.

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