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Ship Assistant Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Arlington, OR · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Davenport, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Brunswick, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Toledo, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Marco Island, FL · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

New London, CT · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Arlington, OR · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Hannibal, MO · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Farmington, UT · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Paulina, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

New London, CT · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Line Cook

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Our shipboard team supports a combined fleet of ships sailing through various itineraries across ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Showing results 21-40

Ship Assistant Cook information

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$9

$15

$21

How much do ship assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship assistant cook in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship assistant cook?

Ship Assistant Cooks are crew members who help prepare and serve meals aboard ships. They work under the supervision of the head cook or chef, assisting with food preparation, cooking, cleaning the kitchen, and maintaining food safety standards. Their role is crucial in ensuring that the crew and passengers receive nutritious and well-prepared meals during voyages. They may also help with inventory management and dishwashing. Ship Assistant Cooks need to adapt to working in confined spaces and handle the challenges of cooking at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship assistant cook?

To thrive as a Ship Assistant Cook, you need basic culinary training, knowledge of food safety standards, and prior experience in food preparation, often supported by a food handler’s certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and maritime safety protocols is also important. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working efficiently in confined and dynamic shipboard environments. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, high-quality meal service and contribute to the overall well-being and morale of the crew during voyages.

What are some common challenges faced by a ship assistant cook and how can they be addressed?

A Ship Assistant Cook often works in a fast-paced, confined galley environment where adapting to rolling seas and limited storage space is essential. Challenges include preparing meals for a diverse crew with varying dietary needs and managing inventory efficiently during long voyages. Strong communication and organizational skills are key to collaborating with the Head Cook and other team members, ensuring meal quality and safety standards are met. Proactively planning menus and maintaining flexibility can help address these challenges and contribute to a positive onboard experience.

What is the difference between Ship Assistant Cook vs Ship Steward?

AspectShip Assistant CookShip Steward
CertificationsFood safety, basic culinary trainingCustomer service, hospitality certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food preparation areasPassenger areas, service zones
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime catering, cruise ships, cargo vesselsPassenger service, hospitality on ships

The Ship Assistant Cook primarily focuses on food preparation and kitchen duties, while the Ship Steward handles passenger service and hospitality. Both roles are essential in maritime catering but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Assistant Cook jobs?

For Ship Assistant Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ship Assistant Cook job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,260 per year, or $16 per hour.

Line Cook

Arlington, OR • On-site

American Cruise Lines
Travel Arrangement Services • 201 - 500 employees

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


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.