
Job Overview
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Benefits
Major medical coverage
short term disability
long term disability
Life insurance
retirement savings plan
Job Description
Disney Cruise Line is a premier cruise line within The Walt Disney Company, renowned for delivering exceptional vacations that combine the magic of Disney with the excitement of travel. As a leader in the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line offers guests immersive entertainment, world-class dining, and unparalleled service aboard a fleet of state-of-the-art ships. The company is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, where employees are valued and supported while working in an environment that celebrates professional growth and personal fulfillment. With its strong emphasis on safety, innovation, and excellence, Disney Cruise Line continually strives to provide guests with unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
The role of Chef de Cuisine (CDC) at Disney Cruise Line is a highly respected and demanding position, pivotal to the success of the onboard culinary operations. This shipboard leadership role requires a candidate with significant culinary expertise, strong management skills, and the ability to oversee large-scale food production in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The CDC is responsible for leading the galley team to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, upholding high culinary standards, and managing food cost budgets. Daily responsibilities include coordinating all food offerings—including special requests and group meals—conducting inspections, training crew members, and supervising maintenance of equipment within the assigned galley and hotel stores. The CDC reports to the Assistant Manager Food Operations and plays an integral part in fostering a positive and productive work culture at sea.
This position calls for someone who thrives under pressure, possesses exceptional organizational and leadership skills, and is passionate about delivering excellent dining experiences that align with Disney's world-renowned quality. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in a high-volume, luxury hotel or restaurant setting, along with certified culinary credentials and shipboard experience. Candidates should expect to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel, embracing a multicultural environment with strict safety protocols and regulations. In addition to the rewarding nature of creating magical culinary experiences, the position offers comprehensive benefits including major medical coverage, life insurance, disability plans, and retirement savings options available both on and off contract. The role requires commitment to safety responsibilities and the ability to adapt to the unique lifestyle and challenges of working at sea. If you are looking to advance your culinary career in a vibrant, professional community committed to excellence and innovation, this is a unique opportunity to join Disney Cruise Line as a Chef de Cuisine.
The role of Chef de Cuisine (CDC) at Disney Cruise Line is a highly respected and demanding position, pivotal to the success of the onboard culinary operations. This shipboard leadership role requires a candidate with significant culinary expertise, strong management skills, and the ability to oversee large-scale food production in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The CDC is responsible for leading the galley team to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, upholding high culinary standards, and managing food cost budgets. Daily responsibilities include coordinating all food offerings—including special requests and group meals—conducting inspections, training crew members, and supervising maintenance of equipment within the assigned galley and hotel stores. The CDC reports to the Assistant Manager Food Operations and plays an integral part in fostering a positive and productive work culture at sea.
This position calls for someone who thrives under pressure, possesses exceptional organizational and leadership skills, and is passionate about delivering excellent dining experiences that align with Disney's world-renowned quality. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in a high-volume, luxury hotel or restaurant setting, along with certified culinary credentials and shipboard experience. Candidates should expect to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel, embracing a multicultural environment with strict safety protocols and regulations. In addition to the rewarding nature of creating magical culinary experiences, the position offers comprehensive benefits including major medical coverage, life insurance, disability plans, and retirement savings options available both on and off contract. The role requires commitment to safety responsibilities and the ability to adapt to the unique lifestyle and challenges of working at sea. If you are looking to advance your culinary career in a vibrant, professional community committed to excellence and innovation, this is a unique opportunity to join Disney Cruise Line as a Chef de Cuisine.
Job Requirements
- 4+ years of experience working as a leader within a high level hotel or restaurant overseeing a high volume culinary operation
- Certified working Chef or equivalent degree in Culinary Arts
- Shipboard experience required
- Strong leadership ability
- Able to work under pressure of tight timeframes, deadlines and financial goals
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Have a valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa (DCL provides documents to obtain this)
- Complete pre-employment medical
- Obtain a criminal background check
- Bring approved work shoes
- Willing to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel
- Willing to perform safety role and emergency responsibilities
- Willing to uphold safety management system requirements
- Willing to share a confined cabin and appreciate multicultural work environment
- Pass drug/alcohol testing
Job Qualifications
- Certified working Chef or equivalent degree in Culinary Arts
- 4+ years of experience working as a leader within a high level hotel or restaurant overseeing a high volume culinary operation
- Shipboard experience
- Demonstrated career progression within the culinary field
- Working knowledge of food and beverage products, services, and equipment
- Strong leadership skills with ability to manage multifunctional and diverse areas
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
- College degree in Culinary Arts preferred
- Proven ability to write and cost recipes and train the team to implement them at the highest standards
Job Duties
- Follow company recipe guidelines for assigned responsibilities using recipe booklets, plate presentation and audits
- Meet food cost budgets and targets as set by the Food Manager onboard
- Order stores for assigned responsibilities by using the Materials Management System (MMS), an online electronic ordering system, for up to 3,000 meals daily
- Inventory control including par levels turnover and replenishment
- Monitor handling and maintenance of operating equipment
- Organize staff meetings
- Provide leadership for all direct reports including managing personnel files, conducting performance reviews, ensuring MLC compliance, monitoring timekeeping system, onboard training, crew development, and crew recognition and communication
Job Criteria
Experience
Expert Level (7+ years)
Job Location
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