Head Butcher (Cruise Ship)

Location: Onboard – Worldwide Travel
Contract Type: 6–8 months renewable

About the Opportunity
Join a renowned international cruise line as a highly skilled and motivated Head Butcher. This role offers the unique chance to lead the onboard butchery team, playing a crucial part in delivering exceptional dining experiences for thousands of guests at sea. Work with a dynamic, multicultural team and enjoy career growth and global travel.

Key Responsibilities for Cruise Ship Head Butcher

• Oversee all butchery operations onboard, including receiving, prepping, cutting, and portioning of meats, poultry, and seafood according to company standards.
• Ensure the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene are maintained in all butchery areas, in line with maritime regulations.
• Lead, train, and supervise a diverse butchery team, fostering an inclusive, respectful, and productive work environment.
• Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage storage to minimize waste and ensure efficient operations.
• Collaborate with Executive Chef and culinary department to support menu planning, event preparation, and special dietary needs.
• Maintain accurate records, including temperature logs, product traceability, and daily production reports.
• Guarantee consistent high-quality cuts and adherence to portion control guidelines for all dining venues onboard.
• Respond promptly to special requests and adapt to last-minute changes as required by guest preferences or operational needs.

Requirements for Cruise Head Butcher Jobs

• Minimum 1 years of professional butchery experience in high-volume hotels, cruise ships, catering, or reputable restaurants.
• Formal training or certification in butchery, culinary arts, or a related field is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of meat, poultry, fish, and seafood preparation, cuts, storage, and safe handling procedures.
• Strong understanding of HACCP, USPH, or international food safety standards.
• Demonstrated experience in team leadership, training, and multicultural collaboration.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively under pressure.
• Proficient English communication skills (spoken and written); additional languages are an advantage.
• Willing and able to live and work onboard a cruise ship for extended periods (6–8 months away from home).
• The position is open to all eligible candidates regardless of gender, background, or identity.

Additional Requirements

Must be willing to live and work onboard for a minimum of 6 months away from home. Valid passport and US C1/D visa required.

Must pass a pre-employment English test.
Successful completion of a medical examination as per maritime standards.

Qualifications and Additional Requirements for Cruise Ship Butcher Careers

• Proven leadership experience in a large-scale butchery or kitchen setting (cruise or resort experience is advantageous).
• Up-to-date knowledge of international butchery standards and current culinary trends.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and adapt to a fast-changing environment.
• Valid passport and US C1/D visa required.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment English assessment.
• Medical clearance as per maritime regulations is mandatory.

What We Offer in Cruise Ship Butcher Positions

• Competitive salary paid in USD.
• Free accommodation and meals onboard the ship.
• Opportunities to travel to worldwide destinations.
• Professional training and career growth within the international cruise industry.
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How to Apply
If you are ready to elevate your butchery career and explore the world at sea, please submit your CV in English. We are committed to an inclusive hiring process and welcome applications from all qualified individuals.