Head Chef - Food Operations Management

Atlanta, GA, USA|Travel

Job Overview

Employment Type

Temporary

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Training and Development

Crew meals

Life insurance

Job Description

Disney Cruise Line is a world-renowned cruise line known for delivering exceptional and magical vacation experiences for families and guests across the globe. A division of The Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line blends the magic of Disney storytelling with exceptional onboard service, state-of-the-art ships, and immersive entertainment options. The company prides itself on maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment where safety, guest satisfaction, teamwork, and professional growth are held to the highest standards. Employees of Disney Cruise Line enjoy being part of a close-knit family that values both personal and professional development. The cruise line offers competitive salaries commensurate with shipboard roles and a unique setting aboard some of the most advanced cruise vessels sailing today.

The role available is a senior culinary leadership position responsible for leading the galley team and ensuring flawless culinary operations across all food outlets on board. This role requires overseeing all food preparations, including specialized dietary menus and allergy accommodations for guests and crew members. The candidate will manage inventory control, cost management, food audits, and compliance with stringent sanitation and safety standards set by both Disney and U.S. Public Health regulations. Collaboration with shoreside food and beverage management teams is essential to align operational goals and maintain seamless service standards. The position demands strong leadership skills to manage a diverse team, conduct performance evaluations, handle training and onboarding, and promote a positive and efficient work environment.

This is a shipboard role requiring candidates to reside and work onboard Disney Cruise Line vessels for extended contracts, typically 2-3 contracts or more. The role involves a demanding schedule of 70-84 hours per week with limited time off, necessitating flexibility, resilience, and a commitment to safety and company policies. Candidates must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, guest-focused multicultural environment with willingness to share accommodations and embrace the unique lifestyle of life at sea. The position also entails active participation in emergency duties and adherence to strict maritime and company regulations including appearance standards.

Overall, this opportunity is perfect for an experienced culinary professional looking to leverage their executive chef skills in a dynamic and highly reputable cruise line. It promises an enriching career aboard world-class ships where the culinary experience is vital to creating memorable moments for guests. Disney Cruise Line supports and encourages crew members' continuous growth and innovation within a supportive community dedicated to excellence and guest satisfaction.

Job Requirements

Must have a valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa (Disney Cruise Line will provide necessary documents)
must complete a pre-employment medical assessment
must undergo a background check
must provide approved work shoes
must agree to drug and alcohol testing throughout contracts
must be comfortable with confined living space and abide by strict regulations
must adhere to Disney Cruise Line appearance guidelines
must show genuine interest in a career at sea and willingness to reside and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel
must commit to the position for at least 2-3 contracts before transfer or promotion
must be prepared to undertake safety roles and emergency duties as specified in the ship Assembly Plan
must follow U.S. Public Health and environmental guidelines
must maintain a structured lifestyle personally and professionally

Job Qualifications

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
fluency in English – reading, writing, and speaking
must be at least 21 years of age
willingness to live and work onboard for specified durations
flexibility with scheduling and job duties
ability to work in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment
ability to embrace diversity among guests and crew

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
set and communicate departmental goals effectively
maintain and update Operating Guidelines and On-the-Job Training materials as necessary
ensure that all facilities and equipment are well-maintained and operational
oversee inventory control, including par levels, turnover, and replenishment
implement effective waste management and recycling procedures
oversee the handling, maintenance, and reordering of kitchen equipment
ensure the proper use and storage of hazardous materials, including maintaining current Safety Data Sheets
facilitate regular department meetings
provide effective leadership to all team members, including managing personnel records
reviewing and approving contract renewals
conducting performance evaluations, including disciplinary actions when necessary
ensuring compliance with Project Onboard initiatives
monitoring STAR performance and implementing improvements as needed
providing onboarding and ongoing training to new hires
planning for succession within the department
recognizing and communicating effectively with crew members
participate in all Castaway Cay responsibilities related to the position as directed by leadership
perform additional tasks assigned by Disney Cruise Line leadership based on operational requirements
adhere to all company policies and maritime regulations
participate in emergency duties as outlined in the ship Assembly Plan