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Marine Cook Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

American Commercial Barge Line

Vessel Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Vessel Cook Company: American Commercial Barge Line Location: Traveling on waterways Job Type ... American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine ...

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Marine Cook information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$14

$20

How much do marine cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine cook in Tennessee is $14.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a marine cook?

Marine Cooks are culinary professionals responsible for preparing and cooking meals on ships, including commercial vessels, ferries, and offshore platforms. They manage galley operations, plan menus, order supplies, and ensure that food is prepared safely and hygienically for the crew and passengers. Marine Cooks must also comply with maritime food safety regulations and often work in challenging conditions at sea. Their role is crucial in maintaining crew morale and health during long voyages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Marine Cook, you need expertise in food preparation, safety, and nutrition, typically supported by culinary training and relevant maritime certifications like the Ship's Cook Certificate. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety regulations is essential. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for managing meal service in confined and sometimes challenging conditions. These abilities ensure safe, efficient meal preparation and contribute to crew morale and well-being on board.

What are some common challenges faced by marine cooks when preparing meals at sea?

Marine Cooks often face unique challenges, such as limited storage space, unpredictable weather affecting kitchen stability, and the need to prepare nutritious meals for a diverse crew with varying dietary needs. Meal planning must account for long voyages, which means managing ingredient freshness and minimizing waste. Additionally, Marine Cooks work closely with other crew members and must coordinate meal times around shift schedules, requiring flexibility and strong organizational skills.

What is the difference between Marine Cook vs Marine Steward?

AspectMarine CookMarine Steward
CertificationsFood safety, STCW Basic Safety TrainingSTCW Basic Safety Training, Crowd Management
Work EnvironmentKitchen, galley on shipsPassenger areas, dining rooms, ship decks
Job FocusFood preparation and cookingPassenger service, safety, and hospitality
Industry UsageMaritime, cruise ships, cargo vesselsPassenger ships, cruise lines

Marine Cooks primarily focus on preparing meals in the ship's galley, requiring culinary skills and safety certifications. Marine Stewards, on the other hand, handle passenger service, safety, and hospitality duties. Both roles are essential in maritime hospitality but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

Can you be a marine cook in the Marines?

Yes, the Marine Corps employs Marine cooks as part of their culinary specialists, responsible for preparing meals for service members aboard ships and at bases. Candidates typically need to meet enlistment requirements, complete basic training, and receive specialized culinary training. Experience in cooking and food safety is beneficial for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Marine Cook jobs in Tennessee?

For Marine Cook jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Marine Cook jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Marine Cook jobs in Tennessee are:

Marine Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Cook job openings in Tennessee as of August 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 $30,260 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Vessel Cook

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Memphis, TN

$15.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 22 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... Your IMPACT 

  • 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.

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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