The HR Department manages the diverse crew and staff onboard, recruiting, training, and developing them to deliver top-notch service. They handle employee relations, compliance with laws and regulations, and provide support to those facing work or personal issues. Typically, the department comprises a Manager, Training & Development Manager, Crew/Staff Administrator, and Crew/Staff Administrative (Welfare) Assistant. They work in a confined ship environment, ensuring the well-being of all crew and staff living and working onboard for extended periods.
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER
The Human Resources Manager on a cruise ship is responsible for overseeing and managing the entire HR division, which includes various vital functions such as training and development, performance management, employee relations, and compliance with policies and regulations. They also handle employee turnover, promotions, transfers, and conflict resolution. In addition, they ensure compliance with berthing regulations, administer benefits and compensation, and manage time and attendance. Overall, the HR Manager plays a critical role in maintaining a happy and productive workforce onboard the ship.
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
The Training and Development Manager in a cruise ship is responsible for creating and implementing training programs for the officers, crew, and staff. They evaluate the effectiveness of training provided by managers and supervisors, conduct orientation programs for new hires, and provide recurrent onboard training to maintain high operational and safety standards. The manager also conducts train-the-trainer sessions with other officers, supervisors, and managers to improve the effectiveness of their training methods and presentation skills. They work to ensure that all employees are equipped with the necessary skills to perform their job duties and maintain the cruise line’s standards.
CREW / STAFF ADMINISTRATOR
The Crew/Staff Administrator, also known as the Crew Purser, is responsible for managing the sign-on and sign-off procedures of the ship’s officers, staff, and crew during turnaround days. This involves preparing proper documentation, such as visas, passports, contracts, and medical examination results, as well as arranging airline tickets and hotel accommodations. The Crew/Staff Administrator is also responsible for the storage, maintenance, and monitoring of all personnel documentation. They issue crew ID cards upon embarkation and collect them prior to disembarkation.
CREW / STAFF ADMINISTRATIVE (WELFARE) ASSISTANT
The Crew/Staff Administrative (Welfare) Assistant in the shipboard HR department provides administrative support to the team and assists the Crew/Staff Administrator in various duties. They handle paperwork, records, emails, and incoming calls, and coordinate various personnel activities such as sports, parties, tours, and special events. They also maintain movie rentals, coordinate berthing allocation, and distribute cabin keys. Overall, the Crew/Staff Administrative (Welfare) Assistant plays an essential role in maintaining a positive and productive work environment for all shipboard employees. This entry-level position provides a great opportunity for career growth and advancement within the shipboard HR department.
Requirements:
- Two to four years Human Resources management experience within a large organization.
- Cruise ship, hotel, hospitality, or retail type of background is preferred. Experience in a multinational and multicultural environment is a plus.
- Minimum bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or related field
- Two years of progressive Training and Development experience
- Must possess excellent verbal and written command of the English language (additional languages-Spanish, French or German is a plus)
English 
Spanish