Apprentice Purser

Apprentice Purser

The Apprentice Purser is an entry level shipboard finance role within Shipboard Financial Operations onboard Royal Caribbean International ships, reporting to either the Guest Accounts Purser or 2nd Purser Payroll and offering a structured development path toward advancement into Guest Accounts Purser or 2nd Purser Payroll positions. This role provides support for guest financial operations, including Sea Pass account review, gratuity posting, prepaid amenity reconciliation, credit card authorization and settlement, and cash handling.

The Apprentice Purser also assists with crew payroll activities such as salary payments, gratuity and supplemental pay processing, foreign exchange transactions, and responding to crew pay inquiries. Responsibilities include performing daily financial balancing and reconciliations between shipboard systems, including POS and property management interfaces, while maintaining strict accuracy and confidentiality when handling payroll data, guest accounts, and payment card information.

The role requires delivering professional, friendly, and solutions-oriented service to guests and crew in alignment with Royal Caribbean brand standards, as well as working effectively both independently and as part of a close-knit onboard finance team. The Apprentice Purser participates in a structured training program with a defined task checklist, progressively assuming independent responsibility as proficiency is achieved, and demonstrates strong administrative, analytical, and bookkeeping skills with attention to detail in a fast paced, high-volume environment.

Qualified candidates hold a high school diploma or equivalent, with preferred experience in payroll, accounting, or hospitality finance, cash handling experience, strong computer proficiency including intermediate Excel skills, English fluency, and demonstrated potential for growth into supervisory roles.