Pastry Chef

Toledo, OH, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $18.75 - $32.00

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

competitive daily rate

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) with match

travel expenses covered

room and board covered

Uniforms Provided

training provided

Job Description

American Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, offering an intimate and unique travel experience aboard modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers. With a fleet that carries no more than 200 guests per vessel, American Cruise Lines focuses on providing personalized, small-ship cruising adventures along the scenic rivers of America. Known for its commitment to quality, comfort, and a distinctly American spirit, the company continually expands its fleet with newly constructed vessels, ensuring that travelers can enjoy cutting-edge amenities combined with classic charm. This family-oriented and value-driven company operates with core values of optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit, which guide its dedicated team as they share America’s story on the finest American ships.

The Pastry Chef role at American Cruise Lines is a vital position for the 2026 cruise season, playing an essential role in crafting exceptional culinary experiences for both guests and crew onboard. As a Pastry Chef, you will bring your creativity and expertise in baking and desserts to the forefront, preparing a wide range of pastries, breads, cookies, and confectionary items that complement the daily menu matrix outlined by the Executive Chef. This role is not only about technical skill but also about artistic presentation and a deep understanding of flavor profiles, ensuring each dessert leaves a lasting impression.

Working aboard these river cruises, the Pastry Chef is expected to maintain high standards of food safety and quality, adhering to FDA guidelines for station setup and breakdown. The chef will also undertake inventory management and production scheduling to consistently deliver fresh, delectable baked goods. Creativity in recipe development and a continuous quest for innovative dessert ideas are encouraged to keep the dining experience vibrant and memorable for passengers. Living onboard presents a unique working environment complemented by comfortable living quarters and galleys equipped with spectacular views, challenging chefs to excel in their craft while adapting to the dynamics of ship life.

This full-time, exempt position demands the ability to work up to 12-hour shifts, seven days a week during periods onboard, with scheduled breaks allowing for rest and recovery. Flexibility and resilience are crucial since the ship’s motions and environment require adaptability to maintain safety and performance standards. The role requires physical stamina, including standing for long periods, lifting moderate weights, and navigating ship stairs regularly. In return, American Cruise Lines offers competitive daily pay, comprehensive health benefits including dental and vision, and a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. The company also covers key expenses such as travel, room and board, uniforms, and training, underscoring its commitment to employee welfare and career growth.

Join American Cruise Lines as a Pastry Chef to be part of a team dedicated to crafting extraordinary culinary moments on America’s waterways, combining professional growth with the adventure of life at sea.

Job Requirements

Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time
Ability to adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes
Ability to multitask and work in a team environment
Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure
Ability to work around 12 hours per day
Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20 inch diameter hatch
Ability to stand for entire shift
Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach
Ability to use stairs frequently
Ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment subject to constant ship motion
Must pass pre-employment drug test
Must complete criminal background check
Must possess Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Job Qualifications

An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry & baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production
Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food & beverage knowledge
Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation
Commitment to quality service
Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test
Must complete a criminal background check
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation

Job Duties

Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel each day
Prepare and serve items in accordance with established procedures, recipes, portion size, and presentation standards
Set-up, maintain, and break down station according to FDA standards
Taste all products produced to assess quality
Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues
Maintain accurate counts on all food items prepared to prevent discrepancies between amount of food needed and food prepared
Schedule the production of all baked goods
Always maintain an inventory of fresh baked goods
Use food production equipment according to manufacturer's instructions
Maintain a professional appearance at all times
Ensure that each guest has a positive and memorable experience