Vessel Cook

American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL); East St. Louis (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

401(k) plan with employer match

Employee Assistance Program

Fresh local ingredients

Supportive crew atmosphere

Job summary

American Commercial Barge Line is hiring a Vessel Cook to prepare meals for crew aboard inland waterways. You will design menus, cook diverse dishes, and ensure nutrition, taste, and presentation meet high standards.

The role requires ServeSafe certification, 3+ years cooking experience, a valid TWIC, and the ability to stay aboard for 28-day rotating assignments. Join a safety‑driven, crew‑focused maritime team.

Qualifications

• ServeSafe Certification is required.
• 2+ years of cook/chef experience in a commercial kitchen or maritime setting.
• TWIC card must be obtained by interview time.
• Driver's license is required.
• Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning.

Responsibilities

• Create diverse and nutritionally balanced menus for the crew.
• Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and baked goods for the vessel crew.
• Follow strict food safety and hygiene protocols.
• Keep the galley clean and organized, with equipment maintained.

Skills

Culinary skills

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

ServeSafe Certification

Culinary degree

Tools

TWIC card

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Vessel Cook
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Traveling on waterways
Job Type: Full-Time

Are you a talented and passionate cook ready to embark on an exciting culinary adventure across the inland waterways? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking a skilled Vessel Cook to join our maritime team and delight our crew with delicious and nourishing meals.

American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River. We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team.

Responsibilities

• Create diverse and nutritionally balanced menus that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
• Prepare and cook meals, snacks, and baked goods for the vessel crew, ensuring quality, taste, and presentation.
• Follow strict food safety and hygiene protocols to ensure the well-being of the crew.
• Keep the galley clean and organized, maintaining kitchen equipment in good working order.
• Foster a positive dining experience and accommodate special requests when possible.
• Work closely with vessel master to ensure vessel budgets are maintained.
• Travel to the designated port location assigned to a crew location.

Qualifications

• ServeSafe Certification.
• Proven experience as a cook or chef of 3+ years.
• Must be able to remain on vessel for 28-day rotating assignments.
• Must be able to obtain required Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card by time of interview. Need a TWIC card? Apply here.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Knowledge of maritime catering and provisioning.
• Strong culinary skills with the ability to adapt to various cuisines.
• Understanding of food safety standards and practices.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work in a confined and dynamic environment.
• Commitment to safety and crew well-being.

Preferred

• Previous Cooking experience in the maritime industry.
• Culinary degree or relevant certification.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Supportive and inclusive crew atmosphere.
• Opportunity to showcase your culinary skills in a unique environment
• Access to fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Commitment to safety and quality cuisine.