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Seasonal Vessel Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Prepares and cooks a variety of meals and food options for vessel crews over 130 people. Reports to ... Contracts are seasonal, duration based on the season and the availability of fish. * Conditions in ...

Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Description Prepares and cooks a variety of meals and food options for vessel crews over 130 people ... Contracts are seasonal, duration based on the season and the availability of fish. * Conditions in ...

Prep Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Prep Cook Gateway Riverboat Cruises Seasonal 16.75 - 16.75 (Hourly) Benefits * All employees ... Willing to work on a moving vessel in water and outdoors (hot and cold environments). Knowledge ...

Line Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Line Cook Gateway Riverboat Cruises Seasonal 17.25 - 17.25 (Hourly) Benefits * All employees ... Willing to work on a moving vessel in water and outdoors (hot and cold environments). Knowledge ...

Mate

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The standard work schedule is continuous from April through October for seasonal Alaska operations ... Cook for crew when requested by the vessel Master * Any other duties as required to ensure safe and ...

The standard work schedule is continuous from April through October for seasonal Alaska operations ... Cook for crew when requested by the vessel Master * Any other duties as required to ensure safe and ...

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Seasonal Vessel Cook information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do seasonal vessel cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal 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 some common challenges faced by a Seasonal Vessel Cook, and how can they prepare for them?

Seasonal Vessel Cooks often face challenges such as limited storage space, unpredictable weather affecting supply deliveries, and the need to prepare meals for crew members with diverse dietary restrictions. To prepare, it's important to be highly organized, plan menus in advance, and develop creative ways to use available ingredients efficiently. Building strong communication with the crew and maintaining flexibility in meal planning can help ensure a positive dining experience, even in changing conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Seasonal Vessel Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Seasonal Vessel Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience in meal planning and preparation for large groups, often supported by a food handler's permit or certification. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and time-efficient cooking methods is typically required. Strong organization, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, nutritious, and timely meal service in the unique and demanding environment of a vessel.

What is the difference between Seasonal Vessel Cook vs Marine Steward?

AspectSeasonal Vessel CookMarine Steward
CredentialsFood safety certifications, culinary trainingSafety and sanitation certifications, hospitality experience
Work EnvironmentVessels, ships, boats during peak seasonsVessels, ships, cruise lines, yachts
Industry UsageMaritime, tourism, fishingMaritime, cruise industry, private yachts
Common Search IntentCooking roles on vessels, seasonal culinary jobsHospitality roles on ships, onboard service staff

The Seasonal Vessel Cook primarily focuses on preparing meals for crew and passengers during peak seasons, requiring culinary skills and food safety certifications. In contrast, a Marine Steward handles hospitality, sanitation, and guest services onboard vessels. While both roles work in maritime environments, the Seasonal Vessel Cook emphasizes cooking, whereas the Marine Steward emphasizes guest experience and sanitation.

What are Seasonal Vessel Cooks?

Seasonal Vessel Cooks are culinary professionals who prepare and cook meals aboard ships, boats, or other marine vessels during specific periods of the year, such as fishing or tourism seasons. Their responsibilities include menu planning, food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards are met. They often work in challenging conditions, adapting to limited space and resources while serving a crew or guests. This role is temporary, usually tied to the operational season of the vessel. Seasonal Vessel Cooks need strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently at sea.
More about Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal 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 Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seasonal Vessel Cook jobs are:
Infographic showing various Seasonal Vessel Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Able Seaman (AB)

Seasonal Opportunity | Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Season Dates: 2026 Summer Season

Season: May-October

Location: Alaska

Sign-On Bonus AvailableSet Sail on an Alaska Maritime Adventure

If you're an experienced Able Seaman looking for meaningful, hands-on work in some of the most rugged and spectacular waters in the world, this is your call to the deck.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge-Alaska's premier tug and barge operator-is seeking skilled Able Seamen (ABs) for the upcoming season. This is an opportunity to work alongside seasoned mariners, support essential marine operations across Southcentral and Western Alaska, and be part of a team that takes pride in doing demanding work safely and professionally.

This role is ideal for mariners who value adventure, teamwork, and a strong safety culture-and who want a seasonal schedule that delivers real experience and real impact.

Why Join Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Work That Matters
Our crews support critical maritime logistics in remote Alaskan waters-this is not routine coastal sailing. Every voyage counts.

Adventure Built In
Experience Alaska from the deck of a working tug-remote ports, challenging conditions, and unforgettable scenery included.

Seasonal Structure
A defined season (four to eight months) allows you to focus fully on the work, then recharge or pursue other opportunities in the off-season.

Crew-First Safety Culture
Health and safety are not slogans here-they're expectations, reinforced daily by leadership and crew alike.

The Role: Able Seaman (AB)

As an Able Seaman, you are a key member of the vessel crew, responsible for keeping the tug and barge in a constant state of readiness while supporting safe, efficient operations.

Working under the direction of the Captain, you will:

  • Make up and manage single and multiple barge tows
  • Provide clear direction, distance signals, and situational awareness to crew
  • Maintain deck safety by keeping all lines and gear properly stowed
  • Perform vessel inspections, cleaning, and routine maintenance
  • Operate and work around deck equipment, including winches, capstans, peaveys, pike poles, pumps, and articulated loaders
  • Support daily crew needs, including meal preparation and supply stocking
  • Uphold company policies, procedures, and maritime industry safety standards at all times

You are an integral part of the onboard safety culture and play a direct role in protecting your fellow crew members, the vessel, and the operation.

Required Qualifications
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Able Seaman (AB) endorsement
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Valid United States Passport
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check and meet requirements for entry into Canada
  • Valid driver's license
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
  • Lodging and meals provided onboard the vessel
  • Company-provided transportation to and from the vessel
  • Must be physically capable of:
    • Boarding tugs and barges
    • Ascending and descending ladders
    • Balancing and working safely in a seaway
    • Kneeling, stooping, reaching overhead, and standing for extended periods
  • Comfortable working at heights and on narrow walkways
  • Ability to work 12-hour days, every day, for the full season
  • Regular exposure to all weather conditions, including rain, wind, snow, ice, and heat
How to Apply

Submit your application today at:
https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. We take affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free workplace and participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.