Maritime Sous Chef — Menu Planning & Shipboard Leadership

Hornblower Group; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Hornblower Group is seeking a Sous Chef to lead food production for Hornblower Cruises & Events aboard our vessels. You will supervise galley staff, plan menus with the Executive Chef, and ensure adherence to health and safety standards while meeting budget targets.

You will manage scheduling, inventory, and costing, collaborating with sales and events teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Experience in a fast-paced kitchen and relevant certifications are required.

Qualifications

• Friendly leadership style with the ability to mentor and manage a diverse team.
• 5 years' experience in a high-volume restaurant, catering, or hotel kitchen with at least 2 years' managerial experience.
• Food Handlers Certificate & Serve Safe Certificate, able to qualify for a TWIC certification

Responsibilities

• Schedule all port galley staff.
• Responsible for all ordering of product for your port, ensuring quality and competitive pricing.
• Complete monthly food and quarterly supply inventories.
• Maintain health standards and ensure operation remains in full compliance with Health Department and other relevant regulatory agencies.
• Assist Executive Chef in creating, costing and maintaining menus as needed.
• Be available for sales managers to answer regarding menus and pricing.
• Oversee all food productions as much as possible to ensure quality and consistency with product.
• Complete all costing sheets, purchase orders and any other relevant paperwork for Accounting in a timely manner.
• Work 3-4 onboard shifts per week depending on business.
• Attend weekly catering meetings
• Prepare and execute Food tastings as needed
• Work closely with Event Managers and Food and Beverage Managers to ensure cohesive relationship between departments and identify areas where one can help the other out.
• Greet guests, whenever present, with a smile and helpful manner.
• Assist Executive Chef as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Restaurant management

Team mentorship

Education

Food Handlers Certificate

Serve Safe Certificate

TWIC certification eligible

Microsoft Office proficiency

Job description

Hornblower Group is seeking a Sous Chef to lead food production for Hornblower Cruises & Events aboard our vessels. You will supervise galley staff, plan menus with the Executive Chef, and ensure adherence to health and safety standards while meeting budget targets.

You will manage scheduling, inventory, and costing, collaborating with sales and events teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Experience in a fast-paced kitchen and relevant certifications are required.