This role has a moderate level of AI exposure. AI can enhance efficiency for some tasks, but this job still relies on human skills and decision-making.
Explore all careersA Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Get qualified to work as a Chief Cook with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
In Australia, a full time Chief Cook generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has experienced strong employment growth over the last five years. There are currently 38,300 people working in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a Chief Cook. Chief Cooks may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
A Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Cookery) is an ideal qualification if you’re interested in a career as a Chief Cook. You’ll cover a range of topics including shipboard safety and survival at sea, skills in food preparation, food safety, maintaining perishables and stock control.
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For those aspiring to thrive in the culinary maritime sector, the Chief Cook courses in Northern Territory provide the essential skills required to excel in this dynamic field. Aspiring Chief Cooks will gain a comprehensive understanding of food preparation, safety standards, and menu planning, all tailored to meet the diverse needs of maritime environments. With a variety of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) operating within Northern Territory, students can expect access to high-quality training that adheres to industry regulations.
Completion of Chief Cook courses can open doors to several exciting job opportunities beyond the galley. Graduates often consider roles such as General Purpose Hands, who assist with various tasks on vessels, or Coxswains, responsible for navigating small boats. Additionally, the skills developed in culinary training can smooth the transition to positions like Second Engineer or Sea Captain, which require a combination of culinary expertise and maritime knowledge.
Students in Northern Territory also have the opportunity to explore other related fields of study that complement the Chief Cook career path. Engaging in Transport and Logistics courses, including Maritime courses, can significantly enhance one’s career prospects. The goal of these courses is to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for a range of roles such as Chief Engineer and Marine Mechanic.
With Northern Territory's vibrant maritime industry, the Chief Cook role is not only fulfilling but also vital for the operation of many vessels. Courses designed to train up-and-coming Chief Cooks equip them with the knowledge and competencies needed to thrive in various environments, including offshore vessels and leisure crafts. Whether you are drawn to work aboard a fishing boat or desire to push boundaries as a Boat Builder or Shipwright, pursuing education in Chief Cook courses in Northern Territory is an excellent first step towards a rewarding career at sea.