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Full Time Vessel Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

United States Seafoods LLC

Cook - Fishing Vessel - Daily

AK · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Job Type Full-time Description United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory ... A qualified vessel cook should have previous experience working in remote locations, and on a ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

Vessel Chef

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$300 - $425/day

Mark Kuehn, Food Services Director Schedule: Full-time; minimum 40 hours per week and as needed for ... The Chef has responsibility for proper planning, preparation, and cooking for all meals at the ...

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Full Time Vessel Cook information

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$10

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$23

How much do full time vessel cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time 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 the responsibilities of a full time vessel cook?

A full time vessel cook is responsible for preparing daily meals and snacks for the crew and sometimes guests aboard a ship or vessel. Their duties include menu planning, ordering and managing supplies, ensuring proper food storage, and maintaining a clean and sanitary galley (kitchen) environment. They must adhere to safety and health regulations specific to maritime operations and may also be required to assist with other tasks during voyages. The vessel cook often works long hours and must be able to adapt to limited resources and changing schedules while at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time vessel cook?

To thrive as a Full Time Vessel Cook, you need expertise in food preparation, menu planning, and knowledge of food safety standards, often supported by culinary training or relevant certification. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and sometimes STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) certification is typically required. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient meal service, compliance with safety regulations, and contribute to the well-being and morale of the crew in challenging maritime environments.

What is the difference between Full Time Vessel Cook vs Part Time Vessel Cook?

AspectFull Time Vessel CookPart Time Vessel Cook
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours per weekFewer hours, often seasonal or as needed
CertificationsFood safety, maritime certifications often requiredSame certifications, but less frequently required
Employment TypeFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, fewer or no benefits
Work EnvironmentOnboard vessels, confined spaces, maritime settingOnboard vessels or shore-based, similar environment

The main difference between a Full Time Vessel Cook and a Part Time Vessel Cook lies in work hours, employment benefits, and scheduling. Full Time Vessel Cooks work longer hours with benefits, while Part Time Vessel Cooks have more flexible schedules with fewer benefits. Both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments onboard vessels.

What are some common challenges faced by a full time vessel cook and how can they be managed?

As a Full Time Vessel Cook, you may encounter challenges such as limited kitchen space, unpredictable weather affecting food storage, and the need to prepare a variety of meals to accommodate diverse dietary needs. Planning menus ahead, maintaining strong organizational skills, and being adaptable are essential. Collaborating closely with the crew ensures you understand preferences and dietary restrictions, while clear communication with the vessel's supply officer helps manage inventory and avoid shortages during long trips.
More about Full Time Vessel Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Vessel Cook jobs? Cities with the most Full Time 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 states have the most Full Time Vessel Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Vessel Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Vessel Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Vessel Cook jobs are:
Full Time Vessel Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Vessel Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Vessel Cook

American Commercial Barge Line

Memphis, TN • On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title: Vessel Cook
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time
Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland waterways? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking a skilled Vessel Cook to join our maritime team and delight our crew with delicious and nourishing meals.
When you join ACBL...American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River. We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team.
What you will be doing... YourIMPACT
  • Create diverse and nutritionally balanced menus that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
  • Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and baked goods for the vessel crew, ensuring quality, taste, and presentation.
  • Follow strict food safety and hygiene protocols to ensure the well-being of the crew.
  • Keep the galley clean and organized, maintaining kitchen equipment in good working order.
  • Foster a positive dining experience and accommodate special requests when possible.
  • Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained.
  • Travel to the designated port location assigned to a crew location.

What we are looking for...
You will need to have:
  • ServeSafe Certification.
  • Proven experience as a cook or chef of 3+ years.
  • Must be able to remain on vessel for 28-day rotating assignments.
  • Must be able to obtain required Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card by time of interview.
    Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning.
  • Strong culinary skills with the ability to adapt to various cuisines.
  • Understanding of food safety standards and practices.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Flexibility to work in a confined and dynamic environment.
  • Commitment to safety and crew well-being.

Even better if you have:
  • Previous Cooking experience in the maritime industry.
  • Culinary degree or relevant certification.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL ...
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Supportive and inclusive crew atmosphere.
  • Opportunity to showcase your culinary skills in a unique environment
  • Access to fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to safety and quality cuisine.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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