Onboard Sous Chef — High-End Cruise Dining

Hornblower Corp; Norfolk (VA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Hornblower Corp seeks a skilled Sous Chef to join City Cruises (Spirit of Norfolk). You will assist the Executive Chef in planning, preparing, and executing high-quality meals for guests and crew aboard a Coast Guard-inspected vessel.

You will lead kitchen staff, manage inventory, and ensure strict food safety standards while adapting to a dynamic maritime environment. Evening and weekend shifts are common.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or culinary degree; relevant training preferred.
• Minimum three years of total kitchen experience in high-volume environments.
• At least one year of kitchen staff management experience.
• SERV SAFE Certified.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work irregular hours and adapt to changing schedules.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in designing and executing menus for guests and crew.
• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes to meet high culinary standards.
• Supervise kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations and food production.
• Oversee galley cleanliness and safety compliance.
• Recruit culinary staff when necessary and train junior staff.
• Maintain inventory and assist with stock orders as needed.
• Minimize waste and ensure proper portion control.
• Engage with guests to address dietary preferences and requests.

Skills

Culinary Expertise

Leadership

Communication

Food Safety

Inventory Management

Team Training

Education

High school diploma or culinary degree

Culinary training

Job description

Hornblower Corp seeks a skilled Sous Chef to join City Cruises (Spirit of Norfolk). You will assist the Executive Chef in planning, preparing, and executing high-quality meals for guests and crew aboard a Coast Guard-inspected vessel.

You will lead kitchen staff, manage inventory, and ensure strict food safety standards while adapting to a dynamic maritime environment. Evening and weekend shifts are common.