Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Schedule
Split Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) with matching
Paid Time Off
Travel covered
room and board covered
Job Description
American Cruise Lines is the largest USA flagged cruise line, offering a unique small ship experience with a fleet of vessels accommodating up to 200 passengers. Operating exclusively within the United States, this company is recognized for delivering high-quality, intimate cruise journeys that highlight the beauty and culture of American destinations. With a strong commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction, American Cruise Lines emphasizes top-notch service, safety, and comfort onboard its newly constructed ships for an unforgettable cruising experience. As part of its expanding shipboard management team for the 2026 season, the company seeks dedicated professionals eager to contribute to its reputation in the cruise industry through exceptional hospitality and leadership.
The role of Chief Hotel Operations Manager at American Cruise Lines is critical to the success of the guest experience aboard their vessels. This key leadership position involves managing and overseeing all hotel operations including the hospitality, customer service, housekeeping, and food and beverage departments. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager acts as the primary representative of the company to guests, ensuring that every touchpoint reflects the highest standards of service and compliance with company procedures. This position requires supervising a diverse management team including the Assistant Hotel Manager, Housekeeping Manager, Restaurant Manager, Cruise Director, Excursions Director, Executive Chef, and Guest Service Coordinator.
This is a full-time, exempt role with a work schedule of seven days a week while onboard. The work cycles consist of 6 to 8 weeks aboard the ship followed by 1 to 2 weeks off. The role demands flexibility to accommodate extended travel with shift days of up to 14 to 15 hours. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager must be comfortable working in a maritime environment with the ability to assist in emergency situations and meet the physical demands of the job such as lifting, standing for long periods, and frequent use of stairs. Located aboard the ship, this position offers a unique opportunity to live and work at sea, blending operational leadership with direct engagement in creating memorable cruise experiences.
In this role, the individual will ensure operational excellence by enforcing adherence to approved manuals and service standards. They will provide leadership by offering constructive feedback to the management team, monitoring food quality and service delivery, overseeing crew orientation and discipline, managing financial reporting, and maintaining cleanliness throughout passenger areas. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager also drives sales goals alongside ship officers and plays a vital role in guest interaction and satisfaction.
The company offers competitive, attractive daily compensation along with comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with matching. Covered expenses include travel, room and board, uniforms, and training opportunities. American Cruise Lines supports continuous growth within the company and fosters a positive work environment for all crew members. This position invites candidates with experience in hotel or food and beverage management who are motivated to succeed in a dynamic and rewarding cruise ship environment. American Cruise Lines is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace free from discrimination based on protected characteristics.
The role of Chief Hotel Operations Manager at American Cruise Lines is critical to the success of the guest experience aboard their vessels. This key leadership position involves managing and overseeing all hotel operations including the hospitality, customer service, housekeeping, and food and beverage departments. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager acts as the primary representative of the company to guests, ensuring that every touchpoint reflects the highest standards of service and compliance with company procedures. This position requires supervising a diverse management team including the Assistant Hotel Manager, Housekeeping Manager, Restaurant Manager, Cruise Director, Excursions Director, Executive Chef, and Guest Service Coordinator.
This is a full-time, exempt role with a work schedule of seven days a week while onboard. The work cycles consist of 6 to 8 weeks aboard the ship followed by 1 to 2 weeks off. The role demands flexibility to accommodate extended travel with shift days of up to 14 to 15 hours. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager must be comfortable working in a maritime environment with the ability to assist in emergency situations and meet the physical demands of the job such as lifting, standing for long periods, and frequent use of stairs. Located aboard the ship, this position offers a unique opportunity to live and work at sea, blending operational leadership with direct engagement in creating memorable cruise experiences.
In this role, the individual will ensure operational excellence by enforcing adherence to approved manuals and service standards. They will provide leadership by offering constructive feedback to the management team, monitoring food quality and service delivery, overseeing crew orientation and discipline, managing financial reporting, and maintaining cleanliness throughout passenger areas. The Chief Hotel Operations Manager also drives sales goals alongside ship officers and plays a vital role in guest interaction and satisfaction.
The company offers competitive, attractive daily compensation along with comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with matching. Covered expenses include travel, room and board, uniforms, and training opportunities. American Cruise Lines supports continuous growth within the company and fosters a positive work environment for all crew members. This position invites candidates with experience in hotel or food and beverage management who are motivated to succeed in a dynamic and rewarding cruise ship environment. American Cruise Lines is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace free from discrimination based on protected characteristics.
Job Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in business or hospitality management preferred
- Minimum of 3 years management experience in hotel or food and beverage operations
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Willingness to live and work aboard a ship for extended durations
- Ability to meet physical demands including lifting, bending, standing, and using stairs frequently
- Must pass US Coast Guard pre-employment drug testing
- Possession of Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Flexible availability for 6-8 week onboard work cycles with long daily shifts
- Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation
Job Qualifications
- 3+ years of management experience in hotel or food and beverage sectors
- Bachelor's degree in business or hospitality management preferred
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Willingness to reside and work aboard the ship
- Showcase a 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
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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