Entry Level Merchant Marine Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Details

Dept Number/Name: 471000 - Florida Institute of Oceanography

Location: USF St. Petersburg

Salary Plan: Temporary

Job Code/Title: 0018 / Other Hourly Prof Support/Svc - Marine Cook 

Hiring Salary/Salary Range: Commensurate based on experience 

Position Number: 330102915                                                                               

Organizational Summary: 

The Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) is engaged in marine research, education, and resource management at the University of South Florida. FIO currently operates a fleet of oceanographic research vessels and a marine facility (Keys Marine Lab) which currently provides collaborating opportunities across academia, government, and private sector for educational, training, research, and public outreach for students and scientists. Sailing aboard a FIO oceanographic research vessel offers a unique and rewarding experience that differs significantly from traditional merchant marine operations. Our research cruises range from short 12-hour day trips to extended voyages lasting up to 14-15 days. At times, vessels may be temporarily stationed at ports outside our headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida, including locations such as Pensacola or Jacksonville. Unlike standard commercial shipping, oceanographic research involves dynamic, science-driven missions. FIO crew members work closely with a diverse array of clients, supporting activities such as water and sediment sampling, hydrographic surveying, diving operations, and other specialized research tasks. These missions often require vessels to remain stationary for extended periods while scientific work is conducted-making each day at sea distinct and engaging. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a collaborative, professional, educational environment and are passionate about supporting marine science. If you are interested in a career that combines seafaring with scientific exploration, and you take pride in preparing and maintaining vessels for research at sea and dockside, we encourage you to consider joining our team. 

Position Description: 

The Marine Cook is responsible for ensuring that all on-board food service operations meet the highest standards of preparation, production, and presentation. The position is also responsible for preparing the vessel's menu and galley activities, including preparation of culinary products, food ordering, organizing, storage, inventory, and quality control; maintaining cleanliness and general maintenance of cooking and service items to ensure sanitary operating conditions; and administering first aid, maintaining medical supply inventory, and undertaking other shipboard duties, as required. This position will report directly to the Marine Captain of either the R/V Weatherbird II or the R/V Hogarth on the USF St. Petersburg campus.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

Minimum Qualifications: 

• This position requires a high school diploma and two years of culinary experience in a similar environment. Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.
• Ability to pass through scuttles and hatches and over door coamings while the vessel is in a seaway; does not get chronically seasick. 
• Valid certifications for Standards for Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping, Basic Safety Training (STCW-95, BST), and MMC.
• Valid first aid and CPR certifications.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Previous experience in maritime industry 
• Experience working in academic environment with students and researchers. 
• Food handling safety training/certification(s)
• Valid TWIC card. 

Special requirements: must pass a pre-employment drug screen. Possess Medical Certificate with STCW and National Expiration Dates. Job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check. 

Please provide the following documents when completing your application:

• Curriculum vitae / resume 
• A copy of academic transcripts 
• Contact information for three references (one must be your current/most recent supervisor)

The selected candidate must have a current work authorization in the United States. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

• Develops menu for assigned vessel for the crew and others on a daily basis using kitchen equipment, tools and supplies stored in dry storage, refrigerators, and frozen storage areas. Prepares all meals and menu items using progressive cooking techniques to ensure quality, healthy, and nutritious offerings for crewmembers and passengers. Accommodates special dietary restrictions. 
• Coordinates galley activities, including ordering, organizing, storing, and conducting inventory for food and supplies. Acquires all necessary galley supplies and provisions in preparation for departure as economically as possible. Maintains a high standard of cleanliness and maintenance of the galley and all cooking and service items to ensure ordering and sanitary condition according to government standards/regulations. Assists with loading and offloading of groceries, equipment, supplies, and other items when necessary. 
• Assists with routine tasks involved with watchkeeping during conditions of inclement weather. Supports deck department in operation of necessary equipment to facilitate scientific mission, including line, winch, and anchor handling; small boat operation; fueling; and securing machinery on a non-stable platforming all types of weather. Cleans, stores, and handles lines as required. [While in-port, perform daily and routine maintenance of mechanical equipment and structure of vessel.]
• Administers basic first aid as required. Ensures medical supplies are in inventory, stocked, organized, and in good condition. 
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Marine Captain.