Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of cruise ship operations, the significance of laundry staff has never been more pronounced.

With the constant flux of guests, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, streamline, and maintain our laundry operations is at its peak.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a cruise ship laundry staff member?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of cruise ship operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cruise ship laundry staff job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Duties and Responsibilities

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff are responsible for ensuring that all linens and personal clothing items of guests and crew on the ship are cleaned to the highest standards.

They are vital in maintaining hygiene and cleanliness, contributing to the overall comfort and satisfaction of the guests.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Sorting, washing, drying, and folding laundry including bedding, towels, and crew and guest personal items
• Operating a variety of laundry machines and equipment, such as washers, dryers and presses
• Identifying and treating a range of stains on different types of fabric
• Performing regular maintenance checks on laundry equipment and machinery
• Ensuring the cleanliness and tidiness of the laundry area
• Following strict health and safety guidelines to prevent accidents and maintain sanitation
• Stocking and managing laundry supplies and inventory
• Delivering clean and folded laundry items to guest cabins and crew areas
• Recording and handling lost and found items

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and diligent individual to join our team as a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff member.

Your primary responsibilities will be to launder, press, and maintain the cleanliness and quality of all linens and guest laundry aboard the ship.

Our ideal candidate has experience in a similar role, and is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires the individual to follow standard procedures for laundry operations, including sorting, washing, drying, pressing, and folding clothes and linens.

 

Responsibilities

• Sort, wash, dry, press, and fold laundry including linens, towels, and clothes.
• Operate and maintain all laundry equipment in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Check laundry for stains and treat them properly to ensure removal.
• Ensure guest laundry is returned in a timely manner and in excellent condition.
• Adhere to cleanliness and hygiene standards at all times.
• Manage inventory of cleaning supplies.
• Assist in other housekeeping duties as needed.
• Work cooperatively with the rest of the team.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a laundry or housekeeping role, preferably in a hotel or cruise ship setting.
• Knowledge of laundry equipment and cleaning products.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift heavy items.
• Strong attention to detail and organization skills.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Good communication and customer service skills.

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health and life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Accommodation and meals provided onboard
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• Free travel to exotic destinations

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cruise Ship Laundry Staff
• Work Environment: Onboard a cruise ship, in the ship’s laundry facilities. Must be able to handle a fast-paced, physically demanding work environment. Work hours can include nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Housekeeping Manager or Laundry Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if position involves travel)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Do?

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff are essential members of the ship’s hospitality team, ensuring that all on-board linens and guest clothing are clean and fresh.

Their main responsibility is to sort, wash, dry, iron, fold, and distribute all soiled linens, towels, napkins and table cloths, and to press and deliver guest clothing.

They are also responsible for the removal of stains and repair of minor damages to these items.

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff work closely with other departments on the ship such as housekeeping and guest services to ensure a smooth operation.

They make sure that all items are properly cleaned and delivered in a timely manner according to the cruise line’s standards.

They must also adhere to strict health and safety regulations to ensure the well-being of themselves and the passengers on board.

This includes the correct use and maintenance of laundry equipment and the correct handling of cleaning chemicals.

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff may also be responsible for stocking linen closets and managing inventory of laundry supplies.

They are expected to work in a fast-paced environment and often have a high volume of laundry to process each day.

While the role can be physically demanding, it is critical to maintaining the cleanliness and overall enjoyment of the passengers’ cruise experience.

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Qualifications and Skills

A highly competent cruise ship laundry staff member should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Organizational skills to sort, classify and manage a large volume of laundry effectively.
• Knowledge of the proper methods and techniques for washing, drying, ironing and folding a wide variety of clothing and linens.
• Attention to detail to ensure all laundry is cleaned and returned without damage and in a timely manner.
• Physical endurance to stand, bend, and lift heavy laundry baskets and operate laundry machinery for extended periods.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with team members and other cruise ship staff, as well as address any customer complaints or inquiries.
• Knowledge of safe handling and usage of laundry chemicals to prevent damage to items or harm to self or others.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, often under time constraints, to ensure the efficient operation of the laundry department.

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Experience Requirements

The Cruise Ship Laundry Staff job is typically an entry-level position where no specific experience is required, although it is beneficial.

Individuals who have previously worked in hotel housekeeping or in commercial laundries have a higher chance of getting hired due to their relevant experience.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience in a similar role are often preferred.

This experience may have been gained through working in commercial laundries, hotels, hospitals, or other establishments that require large-scale laundry operations.

Applicants with more than 3 years of experience may be considered for senior positions in the laundry department of a cruise ship, such as Laundry Supervisor or Manager.

These roles require not only experience but also proven skills in managing staff, inventory control, and implementing laundry procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, especially in a supervisory role, are considered highly experienced and may be ready for managerial positions overseeing the entire laundry operations of a large cruise ship.

This includes managing staff, ensuring quality control, and coordinating with other departments on the ship.

In addition to the years of experience, the ability to work in a team, flexibility to work in shifts, and a good understanding of safety and sanitation standards are also important for cruise ship laundry staff roles.

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Education and Training Requirements

Typically, Cruise Ship Laundry Staff do not require any formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent.

Most training for this position is on-the-job, with senior staff teaching newcomers about the proper use of laundry equipment, stain removal techniques, and the folding and storage of various types of clothing and linens.

A basic understanding of English is often required, as instructions, safety procedures, and labels are often written in English.

Some cruise lines may require their laundry staff to have prior experience in a similar role, either on a ship or in a hotel.

Additionally, it can be helpful for laundry staff to have basic sewing skills for minor garment repairs, though this is not always a requirement.

While not necessary, certifications in housekeeping or hospitality can be beneficial, showcasing a candidate’s dedication to the job and providing them with valuable knowledge about the industry.

Similarly, training in health and safety regulations, particularly those pertaining to the use of cleaning chemicals, can also be advantageous.

Most importantly, Cruise Ship Laundry Staff should have the physical stamina for this demanding role and the ability to work in a team environment.

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Salary Expectations

A Cruise Ship Laundry Staff member can expect to earn an average salary of $20,000 to $25,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary depending on the cruise line company, the individual’s level of experience, and the geographical location of the cruise ship.

 

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff need?

Cruise Ship Laundry Staff should have strong organizational and time management skills to handle the high volume of laundry on a cruise ship.

They should also possess good physical stamina, as the job involves heavy lifting and being on your feet for long periods.

The ability to follow instructions, attention to detail, and proficiency in operating industrial laundry machines are also critical skills.

 

Do Cruise Ship Laundry Staff need a degree?

No, a degree is not necessary for the role of Cruise Ship Laundry Staff.

However, previous experience in a similar role, such as hotel or hospital laundry services, can be beneficial.

Training is usually provided on the job to familiarize staff with the specific laundry equipment and procedures used on the ship.

 

What should you look for in a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff resume?

Look for previous work experience in a related field, such as a laundry service, hotel, or hospital.

Skills like attention to detail, time management, and ability to work in a team environment are valuable.

Certifications related to health and safety, or experience working with industrial laundry machinery, are also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Cruise Ship Laundry Staff?

A good Cruise Ship Laundry Staff is detail-oriented, ensuring that all items are cleaned, pressed, and returned to the correct rooms.

They are dependable and able to meet the demands of a fast-paced work environment.

They should also have good interpersonal skills, as they will be interacting with other staff members and potentially with passengers.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff?

The daily duties of a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff include sorting and washing laundry, operating industrial laundry machines, folding and ironing clothes and linens, and returning them to the correct rooms or closets.

They may also be required to manage laundry inventory and ensure the cleanliness and maintenance of the laundry area.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of working as a cruise ship laundry staff.

Guess what?

It’s not just about washing and folding clothes.

It’s about ensuring comfort and cleanliness for the guests, one garment at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive cruise ship laundry staff job description template and actual job scenario illustrations, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job postings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every clean garment contributes to the overall guest experience.

Let’s enhance that experience. Together.

How to Become a Cruise Ship Laundry Staff (Complete Guide)

Step Up Your Career Game: Remote Jobs with Top-Dollar Salaries!

Feeling Overwhelmed? See How It Compares to These High-Stress Careers!

When Every Day is a Risk: The Unseen World of Hazardous Professions

Beyond Belief: Weird Jobs That Are Stranger Than Fiction