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Vessel Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Red Wing, MN · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

New Madrid, MO · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Fernandina Beach, FL · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Alpena, MI · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Chester, IL · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Alpena, MI · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Hannibal, MO · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Savannah, GA · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Natchez, MS · On-site

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

La Crosse, WI

Pastry Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel ...

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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.

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME • On-site

American Cruise Lines
Travel Arrangement Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about American Cruise Linesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Pastry Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Pastry Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America’s rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
The Pastry Chef should have the culinary expertise and experience to make a wide variety of desserts and baked goods, including confectionary work. They must be able to understand and appreciate the subtleties of flavor pairings and different tastes, as well as have a good aesthetic sense for food and pastry presentation. This position is responsible for adhering to the daily menu matrix consisting of desserts, pastries, breads and other duties assigned by the Executive Chef. The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. 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:
  • Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel each day.
  • Prepare and serve items in accordance with established procedures, recipes, portion size, and presentation standards.
  • Set-up, maintain, and breaks down station according to FDA Standards.
  • Taste all products produced to assess quality.
  • Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues.
  • Maintain accurate counts on all food items prepared to prevent discrepancies between amount of food needed and food prepared.
  • Schedule the production of all baked goods.
  • Always maintain an inventory of fresh baked goods.
  • Use food production equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
  • Ensure that each guest has a positive and memorable experience.
Qualifications:
  • An Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts or pastry amp; baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production.
  • Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food amp; beverage knowledge.
  • Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation.
  • Commitment to quality service.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Must 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.
  • 6-8 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 adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
  • 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.

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