Head Chef for Premium Dining Experience

Lansing, MI, USA|Travel

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Fixed Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Training and Development

Life insurance

wellness programs

Job Description

Disney Cruise Line is a leading cruise line known for its dedication to creating magical moments that leave guests with unforgettable memories. As part of The Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line is recognized for its commitment to excellence, safety, and inclusivity. The company operates a fleet of cruise ships that offer immersive and enchanting vacation experiences for families and individuals around the world. With a rich legacy in entertainment, Disney Cruise Line emphasizes providing exceptional guest services, high culinary standards, and a culture of accountability and diversity within its workforce.

The Head Chef role at Disney Cruise Line is a prestigious position responsible for leading the culinary operations of two of the most distinguished dining venues onboard, Remy and Enchante. This role involves crafting an extraordinary dining experience that blends creativity, innovation, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the Hotel Director, the Head Chef will define the culinary vision, mentor and inspire culinary teams, oversee all food offerings including special events, and ensure adherence to the highest quality and safety standards.

This shipboard role offers a unique opportunity for culinary professionals passionate about fine dining and interested in growing their careers in a dynamic and multicultural environment at sea. The Head Chef will be expected to bring leadership and expertise in Western and European fine dining culinary arts, with a strong focus on menu design, cost management, and team development. The position demands hands-on involvement in daily tastings, quality control, compliance with USPH and HACCP standards, inventory management, and guest engagement to enhance the overall dining experience.

The ideal candidate will have at least five years of leadership experience in fine dining, preferably with Michelin star recognition, and be adept in financial planning and culinary innovation. A culinary degree or professional certification is preferred, and media recognition is an added advantage. Candidates must be enthusiastic about a maritime career, willing to live and work onboard a cruise ship, and comply with the necessary safety and health regulations, including drug testing and medical examinations. Disney Cruise Line prioritizes a safe, diverse, and inclusive workplace that supports career growth and excellence, making this a highly sought-after opportunity for culinary professionals aiming to excel in a world-class hospitality company.

Job Requirements

Be truly enthusiastic about a career at sea and willing to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel
Commit to following safety protocols and emergency responsibilities as outlined in ship guidelines
Comply with general safety management responsibilities as specified in the Safety Management System
Be open to shared cabin accommodations and embrace a multicultural living environment with strict regulations
Possess a valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa (Disney Cruise Line will provide documentation for this)
Complete a pre-employment medical examination
Undergo a criminal background check
Bring approved professional kitchen shoes
Pass drug/alcohol testing within the first week onboard and throughout their contracts
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-quality culinary environment

Job Qualifications

At least five years of leadership experience in a fine dining environment, ideally with Michelin star recognition
Extensive knowledge of fine dining food and beverage products, services, and equipment
Strong background in Western/European fine dining culinary techniques
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Proficient in budgeting, cost assessment, and financial planning
Ability to design, write, and implement high-quality menus that reflect seasonal availability
Adept at recipe development and training the team to execute at the highest standards
Culinary degree or significant relevant experience preferred
Certification as a working Chef or similar in Culinary Arts is advantageous
Recognition in national or international media is a plus

Job Duties

Define a culinary vision that inspires the Remy and Enchante team to offer an award-winning dining experience
Mentor and energize your team to meet high culinary standards through proactive leadership
Encourage creativity and innovation while effectively managing costs and enhancing revenue
Oversee all culinary offerings, including group events and special requests
Craft unique taste experiences that captivate guests with imaginative food pairings
Ensure the highest culinary standards and consistency in execution at the Remy restaurant
Meet food cost budgets and targets in alignment with the Food Manager's guidelines