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Entry Level Vessel Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

United States Seafoods LLC

Cook - Fishing Vessel - Daily

AK · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are looking for entry level and experienced crew members to work on board our vessels. We are ... A qualified vessel cook should have previous experience working in remote locations, and on a ...

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 ... oversight of vessel guests. The 'General Purpose Maintenance' crewmember may work in either the ...

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How much do entry level vessel cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level vessel 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 entry level vessel cooks?

Entry level vessel cooks are individuals responsible for preparing and serving meals on ships, boats, or other marine vessels. They typically assist more experienced cooks or chefs in meal preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards are met at sea. Their duties may include chopping ingredients, cooking basic dishes, and cleaning up after meals. Entry level vessel cooks play a vital role in supporting the crew's well-being during voyages. This position often requires adaptability, good organizational skills, and the ability to work in a confined, moving environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Entry Level Vessel Cook, and how do they contribute to the overall operations onboard?

As an Entry Level Vessel Cook, your daily tasks usually include preparing meals for crew members, maintaining cleanliness in the galley, and assisting with inventory management. You’ll often follow menus planned by the head cook or steward and ensure that food is stored and prepared safely, even in challenging sea conditions. This role is essential for maintaining crew morale and energy, as well-nourished team members are crucial for smooth vessel operations. You'll work closely with other cooks, stewards, and sometimes deckhands, fostering a collaborative team environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Vessel Cook vs Entry Level Steward?

AspectEntry Level Vessel CookEntry Level Steward
CertificationsFood Handler's Permit, Basic Safety TrainingFood Handler's Permit, Basic Safety Training
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, kitchens at seaOnboard ships, crew accommodations
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing meals, maintaining kitchen cleanlinessCleaning, assisting in food service, maintaining crew areas
Industry UsageMaritime, cruise lines, cargo shipsMaritime, cruise lines, cargo ships

Both roles are entry-level positions onboard ships, requiring similar certifications and working in maritime environments. The Vessel Cook focuses primarily on meal preparation and kitchen management, while the Steward handles cleaning, assisting with food service, and maintaining crew accommodations. These positions are essential for supporting crew welfare and are commonly searched together by those interested in maritime hospitality careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Vessel Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Vessel Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety and sanitation, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and, in some cases, a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective time management help ensure smooth operations in the often confined and fast-paced environment of a vessel kitchen. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining meal quality, meeting dietary needs, and supporting the crew's well-being during voyages.
More about Entry Level Vessel Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Vessel Cook jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Vessel Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vessel Cook jobs? The most popular types of Vessel Cook jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Vessel Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Vessel Cook jobs are:
Entry Level Vessel Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Vessel Cook job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Cook - Fishing Vessel - Daily

Cook - Fishing Vessel - Daily

United States Seafoods LLC

Dutch Harbor, AK • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description:

United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory trawlers out of Alaska. We are looking for entry level and experienced crew members to work on board our vessels. We are looking for full-time, long-term employees who are willing to work a rotating schedule throughout the year.


United States Seafoods is currently recruiting for a qualified vessel cook to work on one of our factory trawlers. A qualified vessel cook should have previous experience working in remote locations, and on a vessel out at sea. United States Seafoods fishes from January to November. Total crew size is 50 -70 crewmembers. Key crew work on a rotational schedule with roughly 60 days on/60 days off.


DUTIES:

  • Ensure that all safe food handling practices are strictly followed
  • Plan menus and maintain budgeted meal costs
  • Prepare and serve three to four meals per day
  • Responsible for communicating with office and food vendors
  • Prepares food and supply orders for galley and housekeeping, manages inventory
  • Promotes and maintains galley rules to enhance comfort and cleanliness
  • Maintain a high level of professionalism and customer service at all times
  • Compensation is a Crewshare (which is a percentage of the value of the catch)
Requirements:
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience working onboard fishing vessels
  • Demonstrated ability to plan and prepare three or four daily meals for a crew of at least 85 people
  • Must be available for the full contract period (Approx. up to 90 days)


EEO Policy - The Company's equal employment opportunity policy prohibits unlawful discrimination with respect to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran or other status protected by applicable law.


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