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Full Time Vessel Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Rocky River, OH

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Grand Rivers, KY

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Toledo, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Arlington, OR · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Davenport, IA

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Vicksburg, MS

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Saint Augustine, FL

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Brunswick, GA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Bangor, ME

$16 - $20/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

New London, CT · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Sault Sainte Marie, MI

$15 - $18.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Biloxi, MS

$14 - $17.50/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Old Saybrook, CT

$16 - $20/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Davenport, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

Line Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

This is a full-time, exempt position. Essential Functions: * Ships experience forces from wind ... Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time. * Ability to use stairs ...

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Full Time Vessel Cook information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

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

As of Jun 8, 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, and why are they important?

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.
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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:
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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:
Line Cook

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Line Cook
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America’s rivers. Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across the nation from contemporary riverboats to paddlewheel queens for a steamboat experience.
Our Line Cooks are involved with all aspects of food production including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will work closely with other members of the culinary team every day to ensure that the kitchen operations run smoothly and that all service provided to our guests is flawless. We make it a top priority to offer a first-class dining experience at every meal. Exceptional cuisine is prepared by cooks who have extensive culinary credentials and training from some of the most prestigious culinary institutes. Using only the freshest ingredients, menus are inspired by regional and local specialties. Your goal will be to utilize the ingredients provided to create a unique array of delicious dishes.
While living onboard, our Chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Work directly with the Executive Chef/Sous Chef to produce diversified meals for our guests based off of the fresh ingredients.
  • Organize your workload in the kitchen so that kitchen processes run efficiently.
  • Produce high-quality dishes that follow up the established menu choices.
  • Adhere to all the guests’ dietary requests.
  • Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours.
  • Ensure that hygiene and food safety standards are placed as a top priority throughout all stages of food preparation.
  • Ensure that all meals are prepared as quickly and deliciously as possible.
  • Enforce food and safety standards.
  • Communication with coworkers is imperative to all meal services.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 2 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, country club or full-service restaurant.
  • Must have experience cooking breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Familiar with food safety standards.
  • Possess problem solving skills, organizational skills, and self-motivation.
  • An effective leader who can effectively control time management.
  • Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Ability to complete a criminal background check.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6 weeks working with 2 weeks of unpaid vacation.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to multi-task, take direction, and be a team player.
  • Ability to work with composure under pressure.
  • Ability to speak, read, and understand basic cooking recipes and adhere to directions.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.