Sous Chef

American Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, specializing in offering uniquely intimate small-ship experiences along America’s most iconic rivers. Known for its fleet of modern riverboats and traditional paddlewheelers, which carry no more than 200 guests, this company prides itself on creating exceptional and authentic travel experiences that showcase the beauty and history of America’s waterways. As a leading player in the domestic cruise industry, American Cruise Lines continually expands its fleet with newly constructed vessels, further enhancing its ability to deliver high-quality and luxurious river cruises to its discerning guests.

The company places a strong emphasis on excellence in culinary offerings, employing chefs with extensive credentials and training from prestigious culinary institutes. The use of fresh, local, and regional ingredients is a hallmark of their menus, which are designed to inspire and delight guests with diverse, flavorful dishes. American Cruise Lines is driven by core values such as optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit, which shape its culture, service standards, and workforce. These guiding principles reflect the company’s dedication to sharing America’s story through exceptional passenger experiences on its finest American ships.

The role of the Sous Chef at American Cruise Lines is a vital position within the culinary team on board these vessels. As a Sous Chef, you will work directly under the Executive Chef to help produce diverse and inspired menus for the guests using only the freshest ingredients. Your responsibilities include overseeing food production for all meals - breakfast, lunch, and dinner - in the main restaurant, as well as managing the quality and presentation of café food, buffets, and hors d’oeuvres. Maintaining the highest standards of culinary excellence and consistency across the ship is essential to ensuring that every dining experience meets or exceeds guest expectations.

This full-time position requires working onboard the ship seven days a week during the assigned rotation, which involves 6 to 8 weeks on the vessel followed by 1 to 2 weeks off. The job demands the ability to perform under challenging conditions at sea, including adapting to ship motions and working long hours (up to 12 hours per day). The Sous Chef will be integral in organizing kitchen workflows to promote efficiency, enforcing food safety and hygiene standards, and ensuring all dietary requests are met. Leadership, problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work well within a team are crucial for success in this role.

American Cruise Lines is committed to supporting its employees by offering a competitive daily rate, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, and covering essential expenses such as travel, room and board, uniforms, and training. This position represents an excellent opportunity for a culinary professional seeking to apply their expertise in an exciting and dynamic environment while contributing to a company that values its team and strives to share America’s unique heritage through exceptional cruise experiences.