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Vessel Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The crew on the vessel must be prepared to accommodate a variety of demands associated with ... The Chef must have a wide repertoire and meet the culinary needs of the science party and crew. It ...

Assistant Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$190 - $200/day

The vessel operates in remote locations with limited or no port access between expeditions, so cell ... Assists the Head Chef in preparing all guest and crew meals in accordance with Company menu matrix ...

Assistant Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$190 - $200/day

The vessel operates in remote locations with limited or no port access between expeditions, so cell ... Assists the Head Chef in preparing all guest and crew meals in accordance with Company menu matrix ...

Assistant Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$190 - $200/day

The vessel operates in remote locations with limited or no port access between expeditions, so cell ... Assists the Head Chef in preparing all guest and crew meals in accordance with Company menu matrix ...

CHEF

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$63K - $87K/yr

The crew on the vessel must be prepared to accommodate a variety of demands associated with ... The Chef must have a wide repertoire and meet the culinary needs of the science party and crew. It ...

Vessel Cook

Harahan, LA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Vacherie, LA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Cairo, IL · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Convent, LA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

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 ...

Vessel Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

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 ...

Chef De Partie

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.25/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE As Chef de Partie aboard a Lindblad Expeditions vessel, you'll take a key role in the preparation of high-quality meals - with a special focus on cooking daily crew meals that are ...

Chef De Partie

Seattle, WA · On-site

$180 - $190/day

ABOUT THE ROLE As Chef de Partie aboard a Lindblad Expeditions vessel, you'll take a key role in the preparation of high-quality meals - with a special focus on cooking daily crew meals that are ...

Vessel Cook

Paducah, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

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 ...

Pantry Chef

Seattle, WA

$155 - $165/day

The Pantry Chef is a core member of the shipboard galley team, responsible for cold food ... The vessel operates in remote locations with limited or no port access between expeditions, so cell ...

Pantry Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$155 - $165/day

The Pantry Chef is a core member of the shipboard galley team, responsible for cold food ... The vessel operates in remote locations with limited or no port access between expeditions, so cell ...

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Vessel Chef information

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$10

$24

$44

How much do vessel chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for vessel chef in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel chef?

Vessel Chefs are culinary professionals responsible for preparing meals on ships, boats, or other marine vessels. Their duties include planning menus, managing food supplies, and cooking for the crew and passengers while adhering to food safety standards at sea. Vessel Chefs must often work in small, well-organized kitchens (galleys) and adapt to limited resources and movement caused by the vessel’s motion. They play a crucial role in maintaining crew morale and health by providing nutritious and appealing meals during voyages.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a vessel chef?

To thrive as a Vessel Chef, you need strong culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and knowledge of food safety standards, often supported by culinary certifications and prior experience in marine or remote environments. Familiarity with galley equipment, inventory management systems, and health and safety protocols specific to maritime settings is typically required. Excellent organization, adaptability, and clear communication help chefs manage limited resources and meet the needs of a diverse crew. These skills are essential to ensure safe, high-quality meals and maintain crew morale during extended periods at sea.

What challenges do vessel chefs face working at sea, and how can they be managed?

Vessel Chefs often encounter challenges such as limited storage space, unpredictable ingredient availability, and adapting meals to various dietary needs of the crew. Effective planning, creativity in menu design, and strong organizational skills are essential to ensure high-quality meals throughout the voyage. Collaboration with supply officers and regular communication with the crew can help anticipate needs and address any issues promptly, making the galley run smoothly even in demanding maritime conditions.

What is the difference between Vessel Chef vs Marine Cook?

AspectVessel ChefMarine Cook
CredentialsFood safety certifications, culinary trainingBasic culinary skills, sometimes food safety certifications
Work EnvironmentCommercial ships, yachts, cruise shipsShips, boats, maritime vessels
Employer & IndustryMaritime industry, hospitality onboard vesselsMaritime industry, onboard vessels
Job FocusMenu planning, food preparation, kitchen managementFood prep, basic cooking, assisting in kitchen

The main difference between a Vessel Chef and a Marine Cook lies in their responsibilities and expertise. A Vessel Chef typically has advanced culinary skills, manages the entire galley, and plans menus, while a Marine Cook performs basic food preparation and assists in the kitchen. Both roles operate in maritime environments, but the Vessel Chef's position is more specialized and often requires additional certifications.

What cities are hiring for Vessel Chef jobs?

Cities with the most Vessel Chef job openings:

What states have the most Vessel Chef jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vessel Chef jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Chef jobs?

For Vessel Chef jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Vessel Chef job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

CHEF

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

State of Louisiana
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


State Of Louisiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Chauvin, LA
Job Type: Unclassified
Job Number: BOR 01092026 NW
Department: Education-Board of Regents
Opening Date: 01/09/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
About this Job
The Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (), a program of the Board of Regents, as a consortium is a statewide academic endeavor to focus and strengthen the effectiveness of foundational marine science needed to address the environmental and socioeconomic challenges facing Louisiana and the nation.
LUMCON has provided unparalleled opportunities in marine science and education to the research community and public alike. Anchored by a first-rate marine laboratory, the DeFelice Marine Center, LUMCON is embedded in Louisiana's dynamic wetland environment and conveniently located on a gateway to the open waters of the Gulf. From this facility, LUMCON operates a world-class fleet of research vessels unmatched in the Gulf. LUMCON is expanding its programs through the opening of a maritime research and outreach facility in Houma (Blue Works).
POSITION OVERVIEW:
LUMCON is seeking a Chef for the RV Pelican. LUMCON vessels support science operations and associated functions in the Gulf, Caribbean, and western Atlantic Ocean. Scientists from all over the world are aboard LUMCON vessels for up to 200 days a year conducting research in support of major ocean science initiatives funded by the National Science Foundation, Office of Naval Research, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, and other federally supported ocean science agencies. The crew on the vessel must be prepared to accommodate a variety of demands associated with supporting the needs and circumstances associated with being at sea with the diverse clientele served by this operation. The Chef must have a wide repertoire and meet the culinary needs of the science party and crew. It is the goal of the Chef on LUMCON vessels to provide high quality meals.
The Chef is responsible for all galley purchases, planning and cooking meals for the crew, science parties, and visitors aboard. This role is vital in ensuring a positive and efficient experience for all visitors, guests, researchers, and staff upon the RV Pelican. The ideal candidate will be friendly, detail-oriented, dependable, and capable of handling a wide range dietary restrictions with professionalism and discretion.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Five years of experience cooking in a service-oriented establishment.
  • Hold a ServSafe Food Handler certification and USCG Merchant Mariner Documentation.
  • Able to conduct food-shopping services including online food ordering from various vendors.
  • Have adequate transportation to and from work.
  • Ability to wear and use appropriate personal protective equipment, as necessary.
  • Must pass drug and alcohol screening tests as mandated by the Department of Transportation agency regulations.
  • Requires extended hours up to 14-15 hours on some days and extended days at sea.

IDEAL CANDIDATE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Live within daily driving to vessel.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Conduct all vessel food purchases, food planning, and cooking meals for crew, students, scientists, and associated dignitaries.
  • Stowage of vessel's pantry, refrigerators, and freezers.
  • Preparation of at least three daily meals for up to 21 individuals.
  • Ability to provide additional menus for people with dietary restrictions.
  • Perform cleaning and sanitation duties in the kitchen, serving line, and seating area. Remove garbage as necessary.
  • Provide coffee services and perform related duties, as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS - The physical essential functions of this job include (but are not limited to) the following:
  • Frequently exerting 10 to 20 pounds of force to move objects; occasionally exerting up to 100 pounds of force.
  • Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for sedentary work.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects, climb ladders and work at particular heights.
  • Ability to work at sea on a moving vessel.

HOW TO APPLY:
To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Kim Langlois
Employee Relations Specialist
Board of Regents is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports the recruitment, hiring and retention of individuals with disabilities. For more information on employment resources for individuals with disabilities, see the Louisiana Employment Resources Guide at
VACANCY INFORMATION:
This is an unclassified position.
This position is located in Cocodrie LA.
Applications will be rejected if the applicant fails to meet the minimum qualifications, submits an incomplete application, or fails to apply by the closing date of the announcement.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application listing complete work experience and education.
Please make every effort to attach a copy of your transcript or any other materials as outlined in the posting to your application if possible.
In compliance with federal law, all individuals hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form (I-9) upon hire.
Benefits for unclassified employees are determined by the individual hiring authority.
01
Are you a high school graduate or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least five years of experience cooking in a service oriented establishment?
  • Yes
  • No

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About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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