Onboard Sous Chef — Lead Fresh-Cuisine on Cruise Ships

American Cruise Lines; Winona (MN); On-site; USD 33,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with match

Travel provided

Uniforms

Job summary

American Cruise Lines is seeking a Sous Chef to join the culinary team for the 2026 season aboard our riverboats and paddlewheelers. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to craft diverse menus and oversee the culinary team across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service, ensuring top-quality dining on every voyage.

The role requires a minimum of 3 years of cruise- or resort-style culinary experience, strong leadership, and a focus on consistent presentation and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship.
• ServSafe Manager Certification strongly preferred.
• Familiar with food safety standards.
• Must possess problem solving skills, self-motivation, and organization.
• An effective leader who can effectively control time management.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
• Complete criminal background check.
• Training and Teaching experience.
• TWIC credential is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Work directly with the Executive Chef to produce diversified menus for our guests using fresh ingredients.
• Oversee the culinary team to produce café, buffet, and hors d’oeuvres food with high guest scores.
• Maintain world class culinary skill and presentation across all ship food.
• Organize kitchen work so processes run efficiently.
• Produce high quality dishes following established menus.
• Adhere to all guest dietary requests.
• Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours.
• Ensure hygiene and food safety standards are top priority.
• Prepare meals quickly and deliciously.
• Enforce food and safety standards.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Food quality control

Menu development

Sanitation standards

Team collaboration

Job description

American Cruise Lines is seeking a Sous Chef to join the culinary team for the 2026 season aboard our riverboats and paddlewheelers. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to craft diverse menus and oversee the culinary team across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service, ensuring top-quality dining on every voyage.

The role requires a minimum of 3 years of cruise- or resort-style culinary experience, strong leadership, and a focus on consistent presentation and guest satisfaction.