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Permanent Cruise Ship Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Sandy, UT · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Decatur, AL · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Maysville, KY

$40K - $55K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Cascade Locks, OR

$48K - $64K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

Princess Cruises

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Ability to train and motivate Commis Chefs effectively. * Good command of the English language ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Chattanooga, TN

$45K - $61K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Riverton, WY

$44K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Arlington, OR

$50K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Memphis, TN

$48K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Punta Gorda, FL · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Florence, AL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Marietta, OH · On-site

$39K - $53K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

Princess Cruises

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Demi Chef de Partie Department: Galley Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL ... Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Gulfport, MS

$49K - $67K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

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Permanent Cruise Ship Chef information

See salary details

$28.5K

$64K

$95K

How much do permanent cruise ship chef jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for permanent cruise ship chef in the United States is $63,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Permanent Cruise Ship Chef vs Yacht Chef?

AspectPermanent Cruise Ship ChefYacht Chef
CredentialsCooking certifications, maritime safety trainingCooking certifications, maritime safety training
Work EnvironmentLarge cruise ships with many passengersPrivate yachts, smaller crew and guests
Employer & IndustryCruise lines, hospitality industryPrivate yacht owners, luxury maritime industry
Search & Comparison IntentJob roles, career paths, requirementsPrivate chef roles, luxury yacht employment

The main difference between a Permanent Cruise Ship Chef and a Yacht Chef lies in their work environment and scale. The cruise ship chef works on large vessels with many passengers, often with structured employment through cruise lines. In contrast, a yacht chef works on private yachts, catering to a smaller, private clientele. Both roles require similar culinary skills and maritime safety certifications, but their job settings and employer types differ significantly.

How long do permanent cruise ship chefs work on a cruise ship?

Permanent cruise ship chefs typically work contracts that last between 4 to 6 months, followed by a period of time off before the next assignment. During their contracts, they usually work long hours, often 10 to 12 hours per day, including weekends and holidays, in a demanding but structured environment. The duration can vary depending on the cruise line and specific employment agreements.

How many years to become a permanent cruise ship chef?

Becoming a permanent cruise ship chef typically requires several years of culinary experience, often 3 to 5 years, along with relevant certifications such as food safety and hospitality training. Gaining experience in professional kitchens and developing skills in menu planning and food preparation are essential steps before securing a permanent position onboard.

How much do permanent cruise ship chefs make?

Permanent cruise ship chefs typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, rank, and the cruise line. Salaries often include room and board, with additional benefits such as tips and bonuses for high performance.

How to get a job on a cruise ship as a permanent cruise ship chef?

To become a permanent cruise ship chef, candidates typically need culinary training or a professional cooking background, relevant certifications, and experience in large-scale food service. Applying through cruise line employment portals, demonstrating strong culinary skills, and being prepared for background checks and medical exams are essential steps in the hiring process.
More about Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs

What cities are hiring for Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs?

Cities with the most Permanent Cruise Ship Chef job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Chef jobs?

The most popular types of Cruise Ship Chef jobs are:

What states have the most Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs?

States with the most job openings for Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs are:

Permanent Cruise Ship Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Permanent Cruise Ship Chef job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,994 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

SBN - Executive Sous Chef

Holland America Line & Seabourn

New York, NY • On-site

$71K - $90K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

SBN - Executive Sous Chef
Department: Galley
Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract
Location: Global
Description
Management of all shipboard food preparation to ensure that the line's high culinary standard of cuisine is maintained within the budgetary limitation established as company policy. Assists the Executive Chef in his duties.
The Executive Sous Chef is responsible to ensure the guest satisfaction of the food product in their outlet. They also ensure that staff is trained in order to provide the service necessary for the continued service we provide on board. The decisions made regarding food costs and waste management is imperative to the success of the company as well as team morale and support to the management.
Reporting relationships:The Executive Sous Chef reports directly to the Executive Chef de Cuisine.
Key Responsibilities
  1. Assists the Executive Chef in his duties.
  2. Assist that all standard operation procedures are in place, adhered to and being followed throughout the ship.
  3. Evaluate assigned galley staff as per Seabourn personnel policy.
  4. Assist in training sessions for galley staff that is involved in food preparation.
  5. Oversee the care, treatment and training on galley equipment.
  6. Control inventory and maintenance records of durable (non-food) items.
  7. Control hours worked in his team. At the same time to ensure that overtime is kept to a minimum level.
  8. Maintain log sheet of all liquors and wines for food preparation in galley.
  9. Actively involved in yield and portion control in conjunction with Executive Chef.
  10. Assist in training sessions for galley staff that is involved in food preparation.
  11. Ensure that waste control is in place, grocery breakage minimized and garbage
    separation followed.
  12. Assist loading on the pier that all-perishable food items are of highest quality before bringing on board.

Public Health:
  1. To be familiar with and execute the Seabourn HESS-MS appropriate to their position.
  2. Control and monitor cooling logs and blast chiller procedures. Follow up on daily checklists.
  3. Maintain physical spot checks in all fresh produce fridges in Main Galley.
  4. Supervise butcher shop to ensure that all meat items are being properly handled during storing, defrosting and preparation and to minimize waste.

Qualifications
Education:
  • Formal degree in food management from a recognized International culinary institution
  • Proof of continuing education translated in certificates or letter of participation in specialized courses
  • Strong command of the English language combined with writing skills

Experience:
  • 5+ years experience in a 5 star + hotel, cruise ship or high-profile restaurant performing the functions of a similar position.
  • 2+ year in same or similar position.
  • Certification from accredited advanced food safety program. Extensive knowledge in VSP preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Preferred knowledge of cruise ship-catering operation.
  • Thorough knowledge of food preparation, presentation and preservation procedures. Thorough knowledge of Public Health and Sanitation's regulations and procedures.
  • Effective planner, problem solver and ability of successful implementations.
  • Ability to execute and follow up on food promotions and other activities that will increase guest cruising experience.

Physical Demands & Travel
Physical Demands:
For the safety of yourself and others on board certain physical abilities shall be maintained. Must be able to bend, climb, perform repetitive motion, and repetitively heavy lift.
Must maintain physical fitness to perform tasks associated with job.
Travel Requirements:
  • Passport - valid for a minimum of 6 month
  • Flag state issued seaman book
  • General flag state or flag state approved marine fitness medical United States C1/D visa
  • English Marlin test at minimal score of 80%
  • Pre-employment medical examination

Working Conditions:Working on a cruise ship is very different from any land-based occupation. Working hours are longer and work is more intense due to the constant demand of the guests. You have to be very flexible in your working hours, which on occasion might have to be changed due to unforeseen circumstances. The Maritime Labour Convention of 2006 however strictly regulates these. Apart from the working hours there are strict rules which all members of the ship's company need to adhere to as stipulated by the Master's standing orders. You work in close proximity with your fellow crewmembers and therefore respect among all is essential.

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