OPS Marine Cook

University of South Florida•Saint Petersburg, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) is engaged in marine research, education, and resource management at the University of South Florida. FIO currently operates a fleet of oceanographic research vessels and a marine facility (Keys Marine Lab) which currently provides collaborating opportunities across academia, government, and private sector for educational, training, research, and public outreach for students and scientists. Sailing aboard a FIO oceanographic research vessel offers a unique and rewarding experience that differs significantly from traditional merchant marine operations. Our research cruises range from short 12-hour day trips to extended voyages lasting up to 14–15 days. At times, vessels may be temporarily stationed at ports outside our headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida, including locations such as Pensacola or Jacksonville. Unlike standard commercial shipping, oceanographic research involves dynamic, science-driven missions. FIO crew members work closely with a diverse array of clients, supporting activities such as water and sediment sampling, hydrographic surveying, diving operations, and other specialized research tasks. These missions often require vessels to remain stationary for extended periods while scientific work is conducted—making each day at sea distinct and engaging. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a collaborative, professional, educational environment and are passionate about supporting marine science. If you are interested in a career that combines seafaring with scientific exploration, and you take pride in preparing and maintaining vessels for research at sea and dockside, we encourage you to consider joining our team. The Marine Cook is responsible for ensuring that all on-board food service operations meet the highest standards of preparation, production, and presentation. The position is also responsible for preparing the vessel’s menu and galley activities, including preparation of culinary products, food ordering, organizing, storage, inventory, and quality control; maintaining cleanliness and general maintenance of cooking and service items to ensure sanitary operating conditions; and administering first aid, maintaining medical supply inventory, and undertaking other shipboard duties, as required. This position will report directly to the Marine Captain of either the R/V Weatherbird II or the R/V Hogarth on the USF St. Petersburg campus.

Responsibilities

Ensuring that all on-board food service operations meet the highest standards of preparation, production, and presentation.
Preparing the vessel’s menu and galley activities, including preparation of culinary products, food ordering, organizing, storage, inventory, and quality control
Maintaining cleanliness and general maintenance of cooking and service items to ensure sanitary operating conditions
Administering first aid, maintaining medical supply inventory, and undertaking other shipboard duties, as required.