Sous Chef

Overview

American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, seeks talented Sous 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. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide. Our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit—shape our culture and guide our service as we share America’s story on the finest American ships.

• Work directly with the Executive Chef to produce diversified menus for our guests using fresh ingredients.
• Oversee the culinary team to produce delicious and presentable café, buffet, and hors d’oeuvres food, maintaining high guest scores.
• Ensure that the level of world‑class culinary skill and presentation in the main restaurant is consistent with all food served on the ship.
• Organize kitchen work so that processes run efficiently.
• Produce high‑quality dishes that follow the established menu choices.
• Adhere to all guest dietary requests.
• Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours.
• Prioritize hygiene and food safety standards throughout all stages of food preparation.
• Prepare meals quickly and deliciously.
• Enforce food and safety standards.

• Minimum 5 years of culinary experience in full‑service resort, hotel, or cruise ship.
• Serv Safe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with food safety standards.
• Ability to multi‑task, take direction, and be a team player.
• Composure under pressure.
• Problem‑solving skills, self‑motivation, and organization.
• Understanding of basic cooking recipes and ability to follow directions.
• Effective leadership and time‑management skills.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Pass a pre‑employment drug test.
• Complete criminal background check.
• Training and teaching experience.
• Availability for a 6‑to‑8‑week rotation onboard followed by 1‑to‑2 weeks off.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

• 7 days per week while aboard the ship.
• 6‑ to 8‑week periods of work and living onboard.
• 1‑ to 2‑week shore leave vacation.

• Benefits package including medical, dental, and 401(k) matching.
• Complimentary travel accommodations.
• Training programs to support you.
• Continuous career growth within the company.
• Company covers travel to and from the vessel, room and board, uniforms, and paid training from industry experts.
• Job sites across the nation.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing