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Entry Level Vessel Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Key ResponsibilitiesGalley & Food Service* Assist the cook with food preparation and meal service*

Mess Person

Baton Rouge, LA

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

Position Summary PBSG is seeking a dynamic, entry-level team member to join the crew of the live ... Key Responsibilities Galley & Food Service • Assist the cook with food preparation and meal ...

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 ... Key Responsibilities Galley & Food Service • Assist the cook with food preparation and meal ...

We are looking for entry level and experienced crew members to work on board our vessels. This ... PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION All employees must be able to: -Board and exit the vessel by ...

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Entry Level Vessel Cook information

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$10

$17

$23

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

As of Aug 7, 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 is an entry level vessel cook?

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?

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?

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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Vessel 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.

Mess Person

PBSGC Marine Group

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Position SummaryPBSG is seeking a dynamic, entry-level team member to join the crew of the live-aboard Dredge Wallace McGeorge, primarily supporting galley operations. Assignments are made based on individual skills and dredge needs and may include galley, deck, engine room, or other support functions. This is physically demanding work performed in severe-duty marine conditions, including exposure to snow, ice, extreme heat, rain, and fog. Prior marine or inland waterway experience (especially on the Mississippi River) is beneficial but not required.Key ResponsibilitiesGalley & Food Service• Assist the cook with food preparation and meal service• Clean up the galley after meals and clean all galley equipment• Maintain sanitation of food storage and prep areas per food safety standardsHousekeeping & Sanitation• Perform general housekeeping duties throughout the vessel• Clean and stock restrooms• Maintain clean, sanitary crew living and common areasGeneral Support & Labor• Perform general labor tasks as assigned, including chipping and painting• Work from heights greater than 6 ft as needed• Support deck, engine room, or other departments as dredge needs requireSafety• Maintain the highest level of safety in all aspects of the job• Promote job site safety; encourage safe work practices• Identify and correct job site hazards immediately• Support and encourage team members' learning and development• Embrace PBSG's cultureQualificationsPreferred (not required - PBSG will assist in obtaining certifications)• Experience working in a marine environment• Knowledge of marine duties and safety procedures• CPR, First Aid, AED training• SERV Safe food handling certificationRequirements• Valid driver's license (must possess and maintain)• High school diploma or equivalent• Reliable transportation to and from job locationMust meet at least one of the following:• Food preparation experience• Experience cleaning restaurant equipment• Janitorial experience• Cooking experiencePhysical & Lifestyle Requirements• Willing to live aboard the Dredge Wallace McGeorge on a 2 weeks on / 1 week off rotation• Willing and able to work 12 hours/day, up to 84 hours/week• Willing to work, days, nights, or extended/flexible shifts as conditions require• Willing to live and work closely with crew members in close quarters• Must be comfortable working over and adjacent to water• Ability to swim• Ability to climb ladders/stairs and perform repetitive bending and stooping• Ability to lift and carry at least 76 lbs, including up and down ladders• Must pass a Functional Capacity Exam (FCE) and be deemed Fit for DutyCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive pay commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes:• Health, dental, vision, and Rx coverage• Wellness program• Life insurance• 401(k) plan with employer matchPine Bluff Sand and Gravel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes Affirmative Action for Females/Veterans/Minorities/Disabled. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact ApplicantAssist@pbsgc.com or call 1-888-870-8296.Please note: This employment position may be considered a Safety Sensitive Position related to the operation of equipment or working in proximity of operating equipment, working over or adjacent to water, working at a height, or a particular assignment regulated by license, credential, or contract which stipulates the position or work as Safety Sensitive.
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