A galley steward, also known as a kitchen steward, is a crew member who works in the ship’s galley. His main responsibilities as a member of the ship’s crew usually include food preparation and overall galley cleanliness. Galley stewards work on military ships and commercial cruise ships, and depending on the size of the ship, they may work alone or under the supervision of a chief steward.
The galley steward on a ship is usually expected to assist with meal planning and food preparation. His responsibilities vary, but he is usually in charge of the food inventory and storage facilities like pantries and freezers. He usually schedules maintenance and deep cleaning of these areas on a regular basis. When requested, the steward may also assist the chef baking or otherwise preparing food, and in some cases, he may even serve and clean up the meals.
A galley steward’s other major responsibilities include cleaning the galley and maintaining the work areas. For example, he usually looks after the dishes, utensils, and other cooking supplies. He may also sweep and wash the floors and walls, as well as perform other cleaning tasks as needed. The steward is usually in charge of waste removal, such as sorting trash from recyclables and properly discarding the items.
Additional responsibilities for a galley steward may include maintaining all kitchen equipment and cleaning supplies. In some cases, he may be required to operate industrial-sized machinery, which often necessitates specialized knowledge or skills. He is also expected to follow all applicable health and safety regulations, as well as environmental regulations and workplace safety policies. He may also be required to attend meetings or training sessions, which may include life-saving procedures and drills.
Working as a galley steward is physically demanding and usually entails long hours. On a larger ship, a steward’s responsibilities may be shared with other crew members, such as dish washers, garbage crews, and additional cleaners or maintenance workers. He typically requires good communication skills, physical strength, and overall good health to perform his job effectively. Prior experience in the hospitality industry, such as in a hotel or restaurant, is often required, with a focus on cleaning and food preparation. Before beginning work as a galley steward, one may need to obtain credentials, such as a Merchant Mariner’s Document, in order to work on military vessels in some countries.