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Cruise Kitchen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Old Saybrook, CT

$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

$14.50 - $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

Executive Chef

Brunswick, GA · On-site

$64K - $88K/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

Bar Harbor, ME

$66K - $91K/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

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$62K - $85K/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

Saint Augustine, FL

$62K - $85K/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

Decatur, AL

$67K - $92K/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

Guilford, CT · On-site

$72K - $100K/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

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$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

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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Line Cook

Arlington, OR · 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

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $22/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 · On-site

$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

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19/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

Riverton, WY

$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

Marco Island, FL · On-site

$16 - $20.25/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

Chattanooga, TN

$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

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

Executive Chef

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$70K - $97K/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 ...

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All JobsCruise Kitchen Jobs

Cruise Kitchen information

See salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do cruise kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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.

What are some unique challenges faced by kitchen staff working 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cruise Kitchen staff member, and why are they important?

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 is a Cruise Kitchen and what do they do on a cruise ship?

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 6% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,047 per year, or $15.4 per hour.
Line Cook

Line Cook

American Cruise Lines

Old Saybrook, CT

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Line Cook
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America’s rivers. Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across the nation from contemporary riverboats to paddlewheel queens for a steamboat experience.
Our Line Cooks are involved with all aspects of food production including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 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. We make it a top priority to offer a first-class dining experience at every meal. Exceptional cuisine is prepared by cooks 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. Your goal will be to utilize the ingredients provided to create a unique array of delicious dishes.
While living onboard, our Chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
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/Sous Chef to produce diversified meals for our guests based off of the fresh ingredients.
  • Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently.
  • Produce high-quality dishes that follow up the established menu choices.
  • Adhere to all the guests’ dietary requests.
  • Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours.
  • Ensure that 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.
  • Communication with coworkers is imperative to all meal services.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 2 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, country club or full-service restaurant.
  • Must have experience cooking breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Familiar with food safety standards.
  • Possess problem solving skills, organizational skills, and self-motivation.
  • An effective leader who can effectively control time management.
  • Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Ability to complete a criminal background check.
  • 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 weeks working with 2 weeks of unpaid vacation.
  • 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.

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