Shosholoza Ocean Academy (SOA) invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for available opportunities to work onboard cruise ships. The available positions include Housekeeping roles, with opportunities suited to candidates who have experience in cleaning, hospitality and housekeeping.
Working onboard a cruise ship provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience in an international and multicultural environment while developing skills within the maritime and hospitality industries. Successful candidates should be prepared to work as part of a diverse team and meet the professional, safety, cleanliness and hygiene standards required in a shipboard environment.
Crew Cleaner – Housekeeping
Job Reference: 5506
The Crew Cleaner is responsible for maintaining cleanliness, hygiene and comfort in areas used by crew members onboard the ship. This position is important because clean and well-maintained crew areas contribute to a healthy, organised and comfortable working environment.
The successful candidate will help keep crew living and working areas clean and welcoming. Duties require attention to detail, consistency and the ability to follow established cleaning schedules and sanitation procedures.
Key Responsibilities
The Crew Cleaner will be expected to maintain high standards of cleanliness in designated crew areas. Responsibilities may include cleaning living spaces, working areas and other facilities used by crew members.
The position also involves using cleaning products and equipment correctly and following company procedures relating to hygiene, sanitation and workplace safety.
A reliable approach to work is important because cleaning duties must be completed efficiently and according to schedule. The successful candidate should be able to work independently when required while also cooperating with colleagues and supervisors.
The role contributes to the overall wellbeing of crew members by ensuring that accommodation and working areas remain hygienic, organised and comfortable.
Requirements and Experience
Candidates should preferably have previous experience as a Cleaner, Housekeeper or in a similar position. Experience in the hospitality industry or onboard a cruise ship would be an advantage.
Applicants should have knowledge of cleaning methods, sanitation procedures, cleaning products and equipment used to maintain hygienic living and working environments.
The ability to follow strict cleaning procedures and schedules is important. Candidates should also be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and teamwork are required.
Essential Skills
Relevant qualifications in housekeeping, sanitation or a related field would be an advantage.
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required to communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Candidates should demonstrate a strong work ethic, reliability and a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
Physical stamina is also important because the position involves performing cleaning duties in a dynamic shipboard environment.
Candidates must be willing to follow safety and hygiene procedures and comply with applicable company and maritime requirements.
Hotel Cleaner – Housekeeping
Job Reference: 5574
The Hotel Cleaner is responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in guest areas onboard the cruise ship.
This position is particularly important because cleanliness contributes directly to guest comfort, health and overall satisfaction. Hotel Cleaners work behind the scenes to ensure that staterooms, corridors and public areas remain clean, organised and welcoming throughout the voyage.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will maintain assigned areas according to established housekeeping and sanitation standards.
Duties may include cleaning guest accommodation, corridors, public areas and other designated spaces. Cleaning equipment, chemicals and supplies must be handled safely and correctly.
Hotel Cleaners are expected to maintain consistent standards even when working in a busy environment. The role requires good time management because cleaning duties need to be completed according to schedules while maintaining attention to detail.
Candidates should also follow health and safety procedures and comply with the standards required in a professional hospitality environment.
Experience Requirements
Applicants should have proven experience in housekeeping or a similar cleaning role.
Experience in a cruise ship, hotel or hospitality environment would be advantageous.
Candidates should have knowledge of sanitation procedures, cleaning techniques and guest service standards.
Previous experience using cleaning equipment, chemicals and supplies safely is important.
Applicants should also have experience working in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
Knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements would be beneficial.
Essential Skills
Relevant qualifications in hospitality, housekeeping or a related field would be an advantage.
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Additional language skills may also be beneficial when working with an international team and guests.
The successful candidate should have excellent attention to detail, good efficiency and a proactive approach to completing assigned duties.
Teamwork is important because cruise ship employees work alongside colleagues from different countries and cultural backgrounds.
Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, depending on operational requirements.
A positive attitude and commitment to providing excellent service are essential for maintaining the standards expected onboard.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should carefully review the requirements for the position that matches their qualifications and experience.
Applicants should ensure that the information provided in the application is accurate and that relevant qualifications, work experience and professional registrations are clearly included.
For the Crew Cleaner and Hotel Cleaner positions, candidates with cleaning, housekeeping, hotel or hospitality experience should highlight their practical experience, knowledge of sanitation procedures, ability to use cleaning equipment and commitment to maintaining high standards.
Candidates applying for the Ship’s Doctor position should ensure that medical qualifications, professional registration, emergency medicine experience and required medical certifications are clearly stated.
Working onboard a cruise ship requires flexibility, professionalism, teamwork and the ability to adapt to a busy international environment. Successful candidates may be expected to work different shifts and follow strict operational, safety and hygiene procedures.
These vacancies provide opportunities for suitably qualified and experienced candidates to pursue careers within the cruise ship industry. Applicants should carefully check each vacancy’s requirements before submitting an application and apply through the relevant official recruitment link.
Available Positions:
- Crew Cleaner – Housekeeping | Job Reference: 5506
- Ship’s Doctor – Medical | Job Reference: 5558
- Hotel Cleaner – Housekeeping | Job Reference: 5574
Candidates should apply only for positions for which they meet the stated requirements and should keep copies of submitted application information for their records.