What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pastry Chef position at American Cruise Lines?
Pastry Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Pastry Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America’s rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
The Pastry Chef should have the culinary expertise and experience to make a wide variety of desserts and baked goods, including confectionary work. They must be able to understand and appreciate the subtleties of flavor pairings and different tastes, as well as have a good aesthetic sense for food and pastry presentation. This position is responsible for adhering to the daily menu matrix consisting of desserts, pastries, breads and other duties assigned by the Executive Chef. The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
- 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 breaks 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.
Qualifications:
- Ability to work around 14 hours per day.
- An Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts or pastry & baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production.
- Ability to reach, bend, and frequently lift/move items up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work in a standing position for extended amounts of time.
- Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food & beverage knowledge..
- Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation.
- Commitment to quality service.
- Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
- Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
- Ability to adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes.
- US Coast Guard regulated pre-employment drug test.
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
Work Schedule:
- 7 Days per week while onboard the ship.
- 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard the ship.
- 1 to 2 weeks shore leave vacation.
Perks:
- Benefits package including medical, dental, and matching 401k.
- Complimentary travel accommodations.
- Training programs to support you.
- Continuous growth in the company.
- Covered Expenses – American Cruise Lines provides travel to and from your assigned vessel, room and board, uniforms, and paid training from industry experts.
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