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Director Cruise Ship Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Wheeling, WV

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Boston, MA

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Muskegon, MI

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Dover, TN

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alton, IL · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Astoria, OR · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alpena, MI · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Chester, IL · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Astoria, OR · On-site

With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team. The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is ...

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Director Cruise Ship Design information

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$37K

$135.8K

$243K

How much do director cruise ship design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for director cruise ship design in the United States is $135,763.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $163,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Director of Cruise Ship Design do?

A Director of Cruise Ship Design oversees the entire process of designing new cruise ships or renovating existing ones. This includes coordinating with architects, engineers, and interior designers to ensure that all aspects of the ship's aesthetics, functionality, and safety meet company and regulatory standards. They are responsible for managing project timelines, budgets, and ensuring innovative passenger experiences. Their role is crucial in shaping the look, feel, and operational efficiency of the fleet.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Cruise Ship Design, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Cruise Ship Design, you need deep knowledge of naval architecture, marine engineering, and project management, typically supported by an advanced degree in engineering or architecture and extensive industry experience. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and familiarity with maritime regulations and classification standards are essential. Strong leadership, creativity, and collaboration skills distinguish top performers in leading multidisciplinary teams and driving innovative solutions. These abilities ensure that ship designs are both functional and appealing, while meeting safety, regulatory, and operational requirements.

What is the difference between Director Cruise Ship Design vs Marine Architect?

AspectDirector Cruise Ship DesignMarine Architect
CredentialsDegree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or related field; extensive industry experienceDegree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or related field; licensing may be required
Work EnvironmentLeading design teams, collaborating with shipbuilders, overseeing project developmentDesigning ship structures, creating plans, and ensuring compliance with regulations
Industry UsagePrimarily in cruise line companies, shipbuilding firms, and design consultanciesShipbuilding companies, design firms, and consulting agencies

The main difference is that the Director Cruise Ship Design oversees the entire design process and manages teams, while a Marine Architect focuses on creating detailed ship designs and technical plans. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities within the cruise ship industry.

How does a Director of Cruise Ship Design typically collaborate with other departments during the ship design process?

A Director of Cruise Ship Design works closely with various departments, such as marine engineering, hospitality, safety, and operations, to ensure the vessel’s design meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Collaboration often involves regular cross-departmental meetings, design reviews, and workshops to align on safety standards, guest experience, and operational efficiency. Effective communication with stakeholders—including shipbuilders, architects, and management—is critical to address challenges and integrate feedback throughout the project lifecycle.
More about Director Cruise Ship Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Cruise Ship Design jobs? Cities with the most Director Cruise Ship Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Design jobs? The most popular types of Cruise Ship Design jobs are:
What states have the most Director Cruise Ship Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Cruise Ship Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Cruise Ship Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Cruise Ship Design jobs are:
Director Cruise Ship Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Cruise Ship Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 16% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,763 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

The Dalles, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Cruise Director
American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United States and has no more than 200 passenger vessels that create a one-of-a-kind small ship experience. With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team.
The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is responsible for creating a fun atmosphere onboard while always engaging guests through a series of activities, shows, events, presentations and socializing throughout the cruise. The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous cruise/resort experience, extraordinarily polished presentation skills, collaborative approach, team spirit, and a passion for guest satisfaction. The Cruise Director reports to the Hotel Manager.
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:
  • Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity programs that enhance and elevate the guest experience.
  • Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public address system and one-on-one interaction and socialization.
  • Socialize with guests at every opportunity including, but not limited to, mealtimes and cocktail hour.
  • Greet guests as they depart for and return from shore excursions.
  • Make daily Noon announcement/update; make every effort to make all PA announcements as the "voice" of the cruise.
  • Meet with Excursions Director, Guest Speakers, Guest Instructors and Resident Entertainers at the start of every cruise to review scheduling.
  • Create the daily Ship to Shore.
  • Host Officer Introduction and Excursion Briefing.
  • Assist in the delivery of the Safety Briefing with the Captain.
  • Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events, presentations and shows (lounge configuration, A/V requirements, etc.).
  • Confirm entertainers 48-hours in advance; assist entertainers and onboard speaker's A/V needs.
  • Create and update bulletin board daily.
  • Work with Excursions Director to prepare folders and materials for turnaround day.
  • Act as company representative at pre-cruise hotels on turnaround day.
  • Promote onboard sales and brand loyalty by hosting re-booking events.
  • Oversee proper VIP guest service delivery.
  • Communicate and report regularly to the Home Office as to the status of the cruise, guest issues and recovery, and the evaluations of Guest Speakers, Instructors and Entertainers.
  • Perform bartending duties as needed with other management personnel.

Qualifications:
  • Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be considered.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications
  • Extremely polished speaking/presentation skills required.
  • Strong interpersonal and social skills required.
  • Strong critical thinking skills required.
  • Must possess a strong sense of production and presentation.
  • Basic knowledge of audio/visual equipment required.
  • Must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident, and always have a can-do attitude.
  • Excellent time management and attention to detail.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Attributes for Success:
  • Ability to engage guests throughout each cruise.
  • Superior time management.
  • Ability to manage and solve problems.
  • Sense of urgency in all guest, crew, and home office requests.
  • Positive attitude and receptive to continuous performance feedback.

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 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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