Shipboard Head Chef - National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea Lion

Lindblad Expeditions•Seattle, WA

3d•$276 - $297•Onsite

About The Position

The Shipboard Head Chef is a highly involved, hands-on leadership role responsible for the full scope of culinary operations onboard. As the leader of the galley team, you’ll be actively engaged in prepping, cooking, and plating meals for both guests and crew, ensuring quality, consistency, and presentation at every service. Beyond daily food preparation, the Head Chef is responsible for managing inventory, placing and tracking food orders, maintaining all sanitation and food safety protocols, and supporting a collaborative, productive team environment in the galley. This is a demanding, fast-paced position that requires strong leadership, excellent time management, and a passion for food and hospitality. The schedule includes split shifts totaling 12–14 hours per day, and the role follows a rotational assignment of approximately 2 months on and 1 month off.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience managing a culinary team.
Good time management skills; ability to handle multiple tasks, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
Ability to communicate successfully with galley team members and office personnel.
Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations.
Must have the ability to work on their feet in a galley of high temperature for 10-12 hours a day for the duration of the rotation.
Chefs must also be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
Chefs must be able to stay calm and clear headed under stressful situations.
Current First Aid/CPR/AED certification required.
STCW Basic Safety Training required.
STCW Crowd Management required, training provided.
STCW Maritime Security Awareness required, training provided.
Valid USCG Medical Card per STCW standards, training provided.
Using the English language, this person must have the ability to read, write, and comprehend policies, legal guidelines, correspondence, and memos.
Must also possess the ability to effectively communicate--both in writing and orally--with a professional demeanor.

Nice To Haves

Completion of formal training at a culinary school preferred.
Passenger ship experience preferred.
Vessel Sanitation Public Health (CDC) preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversees guest and crew meals, adhering to Lindblad's menu matrix and recipes, emphasizing regional, sustainable, and fresh ingredients.
Cooks and prepares dishes, leading the galley team along the way.
Responsible for all aspects of meal production, including butchering, portioning, preparation, presentation, and flavor.
Manages food provisioning, orders, loading, and checks stores, ensuring FIFO rotation.
Handles special dietary needs and allergies.
Supports the company's sustainable seafood program.
Maintains inventory levels and organizes provision storage areas.
Ensures sanitation compliance per Lindblad Expeditions, CDC, and Canada Health regulations.
Proficient in CDC standards for sanitation.
Supervises provision loading, ensures quality, and communicates with suppliers.
Stays updated on culinary trends for menu adjustments.
Communicates effectively with the Hotel Manager regarding operational matters.
Supervises training and development for all galley staff.
Manages onboard food costs by reviewing orders and controlling local purchases.
Coordinates with Purchasing Department and Food and Beverage Manager.
Leads galley operation during CDC visits, escorting inspectors and providing professional responses.
Ensures uniform compliance for galley chefs and crew.
Fills in other galley positions as needed.
Ensures food safety and adjusts menus as needed to maintain standards.
Participates in required shore-side training.
Familiar with ISM codes and requirements.
Maintains proficiency in all duties outlined in the company Safety Management System and Emergency Station Billet.
Adheres to uniform policy to promote company image and safety, ensuring galley team compliance.
Attends onboard safety training, meetings, and drills directed by the Captain, covering fire, abandon ship, man overboard, flooding, and medical emergencies.