Summary
Job Title: Temporary Chef
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Employment Type: Temporary Contract
Start Date: 1st June - 31st August/September
Position Overview:
Following Seas Recruiting is seeking an experienced and culinary-qualified Chef for our client, a 125ft foreign-flagged yacht. This temporary assignment calls for a candidate with exceptional culinary skills, creativity, and the ability to cater to diverse guest preferences in the unique environment of a luxury yacht. The ideal Chef will thrive in a dynamic setting while upholding the highest standards of food quality, safety, and service.
As the sole Chef onboard, you will be responsible for preparing meals for the owner, guests, Charters and crew, as well as managing provisioning, menu planning, and maintaining a spotless galley. Attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and adaptability are essential for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
- Menu Planning & Execution: Design and prepare high-quality, customizable menus that cater to dietary restrictions, guest preferences, and multicultural tastes.
- Galley Operations: Oversee all aspects of galley management, including food preparation, plating, and maintaining cleanliness in compliance with health and safety standards.
- Provisioning: Source and stock fresh, high-quality ingredients from local markets and suppliers while adhering to budget constraints and yacht storage limitations.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure adherence to maritime safety regulations and food safety standards onboard a foreign-flagged yacht.
- Crew Meals: Prepare nutritious and delicious meals for the crew (typically 4–5 crew members), ensuring they are energized for their duties.
- Charter/Owner Meals: prepare Prepare nutritious, delicious and a variety of well balanced presented meals showcasing your repertiore and culinary knowledge.
- Adaptability: Provide exceptional service during charters or private use, adjusting seamlessly to last-minute guest requests or itinerary changes.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Formal Culinary Training: Certificate or diploma from an accredited culinary institution
- Maritime Certifications:
- STCW Basic Safety Training (mandatory).
- ENG1 Medical Certificate (valid and unrestricted).
- Experience: Prior experience as a Chef on yachts, private estates, or in luxury hospitality environments, with familiarity in confined spaces and effective management of provisions.
- Licenses/Work Authorization: Ability to legally work on a foreign-flagged yacht (appropriate visas or work permits if required).
- Culinary Skills: Expertise in diverse cuisines, with the ability to cater to vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or other specific dietary needs.
- Organization: Strong provisioning and budget management skills.
- Soft Skills: Excellent communication, adaptability, and discretion when dealing with high-profile guests.
Preferred Skills & Attributes:
- Experience in Mediterranean, American and other globally inspired cuisines.
- Background in pastry or baking is a plus.
- A team player with a positive attitude and proactive work ethic.
- Familiarity with yacht-specific galley operations and equipment.
Contract Details:
- Duration: Temporary – specific dates to be agreed upon.
- Location: Itinerary varies; flexibility to work in international waters.
- Compensation: Competitive daily rate, DOE (depending on experience).
- Benefits: Accommodation onboard, meals provided.
