Chief Hotel Operations Manager

New Orleans, LA, USA|Travel

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) plan with matching

Paid Time Off

Covered travel

Room and board

uniforms

Training

Job Description

American Cruise Lines is the largest USA flagged cruise line, renowned for providing unique small ship experiences with a fleet of vessels accommodating up to 200 passengers. Operating exclusively within the United States, the company is committed to offering exceptional and intimate travel experiences that showcase the beauty and diversity of American waterways. The company is known for its dedication to superior customer service, attention to detail, and high standards of hospitality, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable journey. With its expanding fleet and growing itineraries, American Cruise Lines continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the domestic cruise industry, providing ample opportunities for career growth and professional development within a dynamic maritime environment.

The role of Chief Hotel Operations Manager aboard American Cruise Lines vessels is a pivotal leadership position that centers on delivering unparalleled guest experiences through excellence in hospitality and operational management. This role is responsible for overseeing and guiding the shipboard hotel management team, which includes department heads from various departments such as housekeeping, food service, guest services, and entertainment. As the primary face of the company to guests onboard, the Chief Hotel Operations Manager ensures adherence to company standards and fosters a positive, welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes guest satisfaction.

This position demands strong leadership skills to supervise, mentor, and hold team members accountable, ensuring compliance with operational procedures, while responding swiftly and effectively to guest and crew needs. The role also involves financial oversight related to hotel services, managing inventory, coordinating supplies, and driving sales while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and service quality. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager must be adaptable, capable of working extended hours onboard in a physically demanding shipboard environment, and willing to live and work aboard the ship throughout extended deployment cycles.

The employment is full-time and exempt, with a competitive daily rate and comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, and a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Employees enjoy covered travel, room, board, uniforms, and training. The position requires completion of a US Coast Guard pre-employment drug test and possession of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Ideal candidates will bring at least three years of management experience within hotel or food and beverage sectors, a positive attitude, and a willingness to thrive in a maritime hospitality setting. Importantly, no prior cruise industry experience is required, making this an exciting opportunity for hospitality professionals eager to advance their careers in a unique and rewarding environment.

Job Requirements

Bachelor degree in business or hospitality management preferred
three plus years of management experience in hotel or food and beverage sectors
willing to reside and work aboard the ship
ability to meet moderate physical demands including lifting, bending, and standing
pass a US Coast Guard regulated pre-employment drug test
possession of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
flexible availability for extended travel and long shifts
ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation

Job Qualifications

Three plus years of management experience in hotel or food and beverage sectors
bachelor degree in business or hospitality management preferred
proficient in Microsoft Office applications
willingness to reside and work aboard the ship
positive attitude and determination to succeed
no cruise industry experience required
capable of meeting moderate physical demands including lifting, bending, and standing
must pass a US Coast Guard regulated pre-employment drug test
flexible availability for extended travel including 14 to 15 hour shift days for six to eight weeks at a time
possession of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
able to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation

Job Duties

Supervise department heads including assistant hotel manager, housekeeping manager, restaurant manager, cruise director, excursions director, executive chef, and guest service coordinator
hold team members accountable to company standards
ensure compliance with operational manuals and service procedures
provide immediate, constructive feedback to the management team
anticipate and fulfill guest and crew needs promptly
resolve issues swiftly and seek home office support when necessary
engage with guests during onboard events and meals
monitor food service operations for quality and timely delivery
ensure kitchen staff adhere to approved menus and recipes
oversee crew orientation, discipline, schedule, and appearance
drive sales goals with ship officers
maintain cleanliness standards across passenger areas
manage financial transactions and reporting for hotel services
coordinate ordering and receiving of hotel and food supplies
conduct daily inspections to generate and prioritize work lists
create a positive working environment for all crew members
collaborate with staff to deliver unforgettable cruise experiences
fill in bartending duties as needed
perform additional duties as required