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Head Chef - Food Operations Management

Oklahoma City, OK, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Work Schedule

Rotating Shifts
Flexible
Day Shifts
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
Travel opportunities
Professional Development

Job Description

Disney Cruise Line is a leading cruise line operator renowned for creating unparalleled magical experiences for guests of all ages. As a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, the cruise line blends legendary storytelling with luxurious amenities to offer unforgettable voyages across the globe. With a commitment to excellence, diversity, inclusivity, and safety, Disney Cruise Line fosters a dynamic work environment where employees grow personally and professionally while contributing to delivering world-class guest service. The company prioritizes a supportive community atmosphere and encourages talents who are passionate about hospitality and the cruise industry to join its innovative team. Employment with Disney Cruise Line involves working aboard state-of-the-art vessels where every role is pivotal in crafting memorable experiences for guests and crew alike.

The position available is a pivotal leadership role overseeing all culinary operations on board various Disney Cruise Line ships. This role, based on board the ship, requires an experienced culinary professional to lead the galley team, manage food offerings, and uphold the highest standards of food quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The candidate will be responsible for coordinating group menus and special dietary accommodations, monitoring inventory and cost controls, conducting food audits, and ensuring compliance with U.S. Public Health sanitation regulations. Partnering closely with the shoreside Food & Beverage management team, the leader will sustain high operational standards and maintain comprehensive training and safety protocols. The role demands managing personnel records, conducting evaluations, supporting onboarding and succession planning, and delivering effective communications to foster a harmonious and efficient galley environment. Candidates should be prepared for demanding working hours, be adaptable, and embrace the multicultural nature of life onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. This position offers the unique opportunity to blend culinary expertise with leadership in a vibrant, guest-centric maritime environment, providing career growth and the ability to contribute meaningfully to an internationally esteemed brand.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum of five years of experience in high-volume galley or food and beverage operations
  • Certification as an Executive Chef or equivalent in Culinary Arts
  • Required shipboard experience
  • Strong knowledge of food and beverage products and services
  • Ability to analyze costs and their impact on budgets
  • Technical understanding of ship-based food and beverage operations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Fluency in English – reading, writing, and speaking
  • Willing to live and work onboard for specified durations
  • Prepare to work a seven-day, 70-84 hour week with limited time off
  • Adhere to the Disney Cruise Line appearance guidelines
  • Agree to share accommodations with fellow crew members
  • Enjoy working in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment
  • Be flexible with scheduling and job duties
  • Embrace diversity among guests and crew

Job Qualifications

  • Certification as an Executive Chef or equivalent in Culinary Arts
  • Minimum of five years of experience in high-volume galley or food and beverage operations
  • Required shipboard experience
  • Strong knowledge of food and beverage products and services
  • Ability to analyze costs and their impact on budgets
  • Technical understanding of ship-based food and beverage operations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook
  • Fluency in English – reading, writing, and speaking
  • Be at least 21 years of age

Job Duties

  • Lead the galley team and oversee all culinary operations across various food outlets
  • Coordinate all food offerings, including group menu selections and special dietary requests
  • Ensure the proper preparation of meals accommodating special diets and allergies for guests and crew
  • Monitor culinary standards, manage inventory, and implement cost control measures
  • Conduct food and menu audits to maintain quality and consistency
  • Develop and maintain a strong partnership with the shoreside Food & Beverage management team
  • Ensure compliance with Disney Cruise Line and U.S. Public Health sanitation requirements in all kitchen areas and food storage

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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