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Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

lynden

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

May perform galley functions such as cooking, cleaning, etc. * Handle tow and vessel lines and work ... Merchant Marine Document, AB Seaman preferred * Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel ...

lynden

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK

May perform galley functions such as cooking, cleaning, etc. * Handle tow and vessel lines and work ... Merchant Marine Document, AB Seaman preferred * Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel ...

Lynden Incorporated

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

May perform galley functions such as cooking, cleaning, etc. * Handle tow and vessel lines and work ... Merchant Marine Document, AB Seaman preferred * Ideal candidate brings proven Alaska vessel ...

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Sciences Marine Facilities dock in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when not conducting survey operations ... Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an Ordinary Seaman or higher ...

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Vessel Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$322.13/day

... Sciences Marine Facilities dock in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when not conducting survey operations ... Preferred United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an Ordinary Seaman or higher ...

PBSGC Marine Group

Mess Person

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

Position SummaryPBSG is seeking a dynamic, entry-level team member to join the crew of the live ... Prior marine or inland waterway experience (especially on the Mississippi River) is beneficial but ...

PBSGC Marine Group

Mess Person

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

Position Summary PBSG is seeking a dynamic, entry-level team member to join the crew of the live ... Prior marine or inland waterway experience (especially on the Mississippi River) is beneficial but ...

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 708

Be Seen First

Cooks

Brooksville, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Prepare ingredients and cook food according to recipes and standards * Plate dishes attractively ... * Entry-level experience in food preparation

Interlake Steamship Company

2nd Cook

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The 'General Purpose Maintenance - Galley' crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level ... H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential. Direct Supervisor - Chief Steward Primary Responsibilities

Sause Bros

Deckhand/Cook

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

Comply with Company waste management policies and marine pollution regulations. 6. Ensure galley ... Other duties as assigned. Requirements Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner ...

Sause Bros.

Deckhand/Cook

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

Comply with Company waste management policies and marine pollution regulations. 6. Ensure galley ... Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential with F/H endorsement 2. Valid TWIC ...

Sause Bros Inc

Deckhand/Cook

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

Comply with Company waste management policies and marine pollution regulations. 6. Ensure galley ... Other duties as assigned. Requirements Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner ...

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Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook information

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How much do entry level merchant marine cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level merchant marine cook in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level merchant marine cook?

To thrive as an Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook, you need basic culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with completion of a maritime food handler certification. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and adherence to U.S. Coast Guard or international maritime regulations is important. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, adaptability to long periods at sea, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These abilities ensure safe, efficient meal preparation and contribute to the well-being and morale of the ship's crew during extended voyages.

What is the difference between Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook vs Entry Level Merchant Marine Steward?

AspectEntry Level Merchant Marine CookEntry Level Merchant Marine Steward
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Food Handler's PermitSTCW Basic Safety, Customer Service Certification
Work EnvironmentKitchen, galley on shipsPassenger areas, dining rooms on ships
Job RolePrepare and cook meals for crew and passengersAssist with passenger services, housekeeping, and hospitality
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cruise linesPassenger ships, cruise industry

The Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook primarily focuses on meal preparation and kitchen duties, requiring culinary skills and safety certifications. In contrast, the Entry Level Merchant Marine Steward handles passenger service and hospitality tasks, often requiring customer service experience. Both roles are essential onboard ships, but they differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level merchant marine cooks when working at sea?

Entry level Merchant Marine Cooks often face challenges such as adapting to limited kitchen space, maintaining food safety standards during rough seas, and preparing meals for diverse crews with varying dietary needs. The role requires strong organizational skills to efficiently manage inventory and meal planning, especially on longer voyages. Additionally, cooks must collaborate closely with the rest of the galley team to ensure timely meal service and handle the physical demands of working in a moving environment.

What does an entry level merchant marine cook do?

An Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook is responsible for preparing and serving meals to the crew and officers aboard a commercial vessel. They assist with food storage, kitchen cleanliness, and may help with menu planning under the supervision of senior cooks or stewards. This role requires maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety while working in the challenging environment of a ship. Entry level cooks often start by performing basic food preparation and gradually take on more responsibility as they gain experience.
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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Marine Cook jobs? The most popular types of Merchant Marine Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs are:
Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

SIO Research Vessel Deck Crew - Per Diem - 136617

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$25 - $52.16/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 14 days ago

University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Payroll Title:
FIRST OFCR PD Department:
NIMITZ MARINE FACIL Hiring Pay Scale
$25.00 - $52.16 / Per Hour Worksite:
Various Appointment Type:
Per Diem Appointment Percent:
25-100% Union:
B6 Contract Total Openings:
50 Work Schedule:
Variable, Variable at Sea, Variable at Sea
#136617 SIO Research Vessel Deck Crew - Per Diem
Extended Review Date: Thu 8/6/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
DESCRIPTION
Embark on an Adventure with Scripps Institution of Oceanography!
Do you have a passion for the sea and an adventurous spirit? Are you ready to support groundbreaking oceanographic research while traveling to locations across the globe? If so, we invite you to become part of our team at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, where you will be an essential part of our mission to advance knowledge of the world's oceans and the Earth.Position: Per Diem Ship Crew Member Pool Must be able to go to sea for extended periods; typical deployments average two to three (2 - 3) months.
About Us: At the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, we are at the forefront of ocean and earth science research, education, and public service. Our institution is dedicated to exploring the mysteries of the deep and making groundbreaking discoveries. Our research covers a vast array of disciplines, including physical, chemical, biological, geological, and geophysical studies of the oceans and Earth.
Our impressive fleet of oceanographic research vessels is among the largest academic fleets globally. The Scripps Fleet includes the following:
  • R/V Roger Revelle: Our flagship global-class research vessel.
  • R/V Sally Ride: A cutting-edge ocean-class ship.
  • R/V Robert Gordon Sproul: A versatile regional-class vessel conducting short missions off the U.S. West Coast.
Both R/V Roger Revelle and R/V Sally Ride meet tonnage requirements for maintaining and upgrading unlimited licenses.
Available Positions: We are continually accepting applications for a per diem pool of candidates to be used on an "as needed" basis throughout the year for the following ships' crew positions:
  • 1st Officer (Title Code: 4306) Range: $52.16 - $75.98
  • 2nd Officer (Title Code: 4307) Range: $47.05 - $68.55
  • 3rd Officer (Title Code: 4308) Range: $41.91 - $61.06
  • Seaman (Limited or Unlimited) (Title Code: 4304) Range: $32.36 - $47.13
  • Ordinary Seaman (Title Code: 4305) Range: $25.00 - $36.42
  • Marine Cook and Sr. Marine Cook (Ordinary Seaman/Wiper Endorsement) (Title Codes 4300 & 4299) Range: $26.58 - $38.72 and $33.58 - $48.92
Ongoing Opportunity:
This posting will remain open as a pool for candidates throughout the year on an "as-needed" basis. Candidates will be contacted directly if a hitch opens up.
Ready to Set Sail?
If you're seeking a flexible, short-term opportunity that makes a difference and fuels your adventurous spirit, apply today! Join the per diem pool at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and be a vital part of our mission to explore and understand the world's oceans.
Thank you for considering Scripps Institution of Oceanography as your next adventure. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered for these exciting opportunities, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • A valid U.S. Passport
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard documentation and endorsements for the specific position, including:
  • Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the following endorsements:
    • VPDSD Endorsement (Vessel Personnel Designated with Security Duties)
    • STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) for watch standers
    • RFPNW/RFPEW (Ratings Forming Part of Navigational/Engine watch)
    • OICNW/OICEW (Officer in Charge of Navigational/Engineering Watch, for Officers ONLY)
  • Medical Certificate (with valid STCW and National Expiration Dates)
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen as a condition of employment.
  • Job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $111,082 - $161,820 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $53.20 - $77.50
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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