Looking for a non-entertainer cruise ship job? These brief descriptions will help you find a position. Be aware that these are GENERAL job descriptions for the cruise line industry; actual titles, duties, and responsibilities of each position will vary by cruise line.


Cruise Director

The Cruise Director is responsible for all onboard entertainment. The position involves supervising and scheduling staff within the Entertainment department, as well as administrative duties. The Cruise Director also serves as the Master of Ceremonies for many activities. In the past few years, the job has evolved to more of an administrative position (especially on the bigger ships).

Assistant Cruise Director

The Assistant Cruise Director assists the Cruise Director in all his/her responsibilities: co-ordinate passengers' activities programs, supervise Cruise Staff, etc. He/she is expected to socialize with passengers and participate in onboard activities. Quite often, the ACD is the main liaison between Guest Entertainers and the Cruise Director.

Cruise Staff / Activity Staff

Cruise Staff members are expected to socialize with passengers, play games, dance, call bingo numbers, get passengers involved in social and entertainment activities, provide customer service, etc. On occasion they may be called on to escort shore excursions in the various ports of call as well.

Youth Staff

The youth staff is onboard to organize the time of the junior cruisers onboard between the ages of 3 -17, through sports, games, activities and more. Youth counselors have to be fun and outgoing, and definitely need experience working with children!

Disc Jockey (DJ)
Good knowledge of various music genres from all decades is required. Microphone skills and experience is required, as well as an outgoing, lively personality! The DJ may also be required to handle some cruise staff activities.

Stage Manager

The Stage Manager is responsible for all aspects of the main theater and all shows therein. Their duties include scheduling, running shows, and supervising the performers and technicians onboard.

Sound Technician

The sound technicians are typically required to run complete audio, including set up and mixing on a pro sound console in the main theater for all shows and performances.

Lighting Technician

This is the lighting controller for all shows on the ships. This person typically needs Whole Hog experience, though it is not always required. Must have troubleshooting skills, programming knowledge and repair & maintenance skills as well.

Stage Staff

Assists backstage in whatever way necessary. Entry-level position, which in many cases paves the way for sound and/or lighting tech positions. Some theater knowledge is required.