AB/COOK - Honolulu, HI

This position is offered by a maritime company specializing in vessel operations and crew management. The company is devoted to ensuring the smooth sailings and safety of its marine vessels through skilled personnel performing a variety of essential duties. Known for its commitment to excellence, safety, and operational efficiency, this organization values employees who can work well both independently and as a part of a team in demanding environments. The company operates vessels that navigate diverse weather and sea conditions requiring staff to be versatile, adaptable, and highly responsive to changes both onboard and onshore.

The role centers on a unique combination of culinary expertise and deckhand skills, making it a critical function aboard the vessel. The successful candidate will primarily be tasked with preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for all crew members. This requires culinary experience and attention to quality as microwave meals are not acceptable under this role’s guidelines. Beyond meal preparation, this position demands general maintenance duties in the galley and on the vessel, including tasks such as needle gunning and painting, ensuring the operational areas are kept in optimal condition.

Budget management is another key aspect of the position, where the employee will be required to maintain and observe a set monthly budget for provisions and supplies. They will prepare and review store lists with the Captain and conduct shopping for stores, emphasizing financial responsibility and efficiency. The job includes sanitation duties in the galley, maintaining high standards for cleanliness and hygiene which are vital to the health and safety of all on board.

Additionally, the candidate will perform various seaman and deckhand duties. These include handling lines, tow wires, setting blocks, and managing bridles which are essential tasks to the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The position demands physical agility, as working conditions involve climbing, balancing between the pier, vessel, and barges, as well as walking, stooping, squatting, lifting, and pushing heavy objects up to 50 pounds.

The role includes using galley appliances and basic hand and power tools, and may sometimes require driving a company van to deliver stores to the vessel. This job will expose the employee to varied environments including noisy, wet, humid, and dusty conditions as well as the occasional use of paints, solvents, and thinners, thus requiring compliance with safety standards and protective practices.

Mental demands of the position involve mathematical ability for budget management and the need for acute alertness to detail to ensure the safety of both the vessel and crew. Communication skills are essential for receiving and interpreting instructions and effectively collaborating with coworkers and supervisors.

Required qualifications include possession of a US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Document with Able Bodied Seaman endorsements, specifically in the steward’s department, along with a valid driver’s license. Culinary schooling with two or more years of meal preparation experience is preferred, as is prior galley experience onboard vessels. Educational requirements consist of a high school diploma or GED, and the ability to read, write, and verbally communicate effectively in a maritime work environment. This position also prefers candidates with STCW 95 endorsement and current TB clearance.

In summary, this role offers a diverse and challenging environment ideal for individuals with a passion for the maritime industry who have culinary skills and sea-going experience, combined with physical resilience and a willingness to engage in general vessel maintenance and deckhand operations. The position is vital for shipboard operations and crew morale, ensuring quality meals and contributing to the vessel's overall safety and efficiency.