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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in meal prep and keep the ship clean while enjoying a unique work environment.
- Company: Join the Northern Lighthouse Board, a historic authority ensuring maritime safety since 1786.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, sick pay, and excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Experience life at sea while making a real difference in maritime safety.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant cooking certificates and experience on ships.
- Other info: Fixed rota of 28 days on, 28 days off for a great work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 41500 £ per year.
THE COMMISSIONERS OF NORTHERN LIGHTHOUSES currently have a vacancy for a Cook/Steward for service onboard their Aids to Navigation Tenders on a fixed manning rota – 28 days duty followed by 28 days leave. The Northern Lighthouse Board is the General Lighthouse Authority for Scotland and the Isle of Man, responsible for the superintendence and management of all lighthouses, buoys and beacons within those waters. We have provided this vital safety service to mariners since 1786.
The Role – Overview
As Cook/Steward you will assist the Chief Cook in preparation of meals, assist in management of ships garbage and ensure cleanliness of galley, fridges and storerooms. You will also be responsible for the cleaning of passageways, recreation rooms, mess room and passenger cabins.
Salary and Benefits
- £39,859 rising to £41,521 depending on skills & experience
- A Civil Service Pension with an average employer contribution of 28%
- Generous sick pay scheme and family leave policies
- Excellent training and development opportunities
Skills/Experience Required
- MLC 2006 Ships Cooks Certificate
- A valid unrestricted MCA Medical Certificate - ENG 1
- Elementary First Aid
- ISPS – Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
- Proficiency in Personal Survival Techniques
- Proficiency in Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibility
- Previous experience working as a ships cook and of creating and implementing innovative menus that meet differing dietary requirements using quality nutritious produce
For further details and an application pack please download an application from our website.
Closing Date: Monday 20th April 2026
The NLB is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Cook/ Steward employer: Northern Lighthouse Board
Contact Detail:
Northern Lighthouse Board Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook/ Steward
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the maritime industry, especially those who have worked on ships. They can give you insider info and might even know about openings before they're advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your cooking skills and safety protocols. Be ready to discuss how you handle dietary requirements and manage kitchen cleanliness – these are key for the Cook/Steward role!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! If you’ve got experience creating innovative menus, bring examples or ideas to the interview. This will demonstrate your ability to meet diverse dietary needs while keeping meals exciting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook/ Steward
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your cooking experience and any relevant certifications, like the MLC 2006 Ships Cooks Certificate. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our team!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Cook/Steward role. We love seeing how you connect your experience to what we do.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate a well-organised application!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Lighthouse Board
✨Know Your Culinary Skills
Make sure you brush up on your cooking techniques and menu planning. Be ready to discuss your experience with creating innovative menus that cater to different dietary needs. This will show that you understand the role and can contribute effectively.
✨Safety First!
Familiarise yourself with safety protocols, especially those related to fire prevention and personal safety at sea. Be prepared to talk about your certifications and how you've applied them in previous roles. This demonstrates your commitment to safety, which is crucial for this position.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a Cook/Steward, teamwork is key. Think of examples where you've worked well with others, especially in high-pressure environments. Highlighting your ability to collaborate with the Chief Cook and other crew members will make you stand out.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the role and the team you'll be working with. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Questions about the ship's operations or the types of meals typically served can spark a great conversation.