plongeur

Plongeur is a French noun with two primary meanings. It derives from the verb plonger, to plunge or to dive, and is used for a person who dives underwater as well as for a kitchen worker who washes dishes. The feminine form is plongeuse.

In diving contexts, a plongeur is a professional diver who carries out underwater work such as inspection, construction, maintenance, welding, salvage, or scientific sampling. Plongeurs may operate in commercial diving, offshore industries, ship repair, or underwater archaeology. Training and certification are required, with standards set by national authorities or professional bodies. Safety protocols for depth, decompression, and environmental protection are integral to the work. Historically, the term is associated with early caisson diving and other underwater construction activities.

In hospitality and food service, plongeur is the job title for a kitchen worker who handles dishwashing and related cleaning tasks. Duties include washing dishes, cleaning utensils and equipment, maintaining the cleanliness of the dishwashing area, sorting and storing supplies, and sometimes assisting chefs or prep staff. This is typically an entry-level role in restaurants and hotels; in modern usage the feminine form plongeuse is common, and in English-speaking workplaces the role is often called dishwasher or kitchen porter.

Usage notes: The meaning is determined by context, with culinary usage linked to kitchens and restaurants, and diving usage linked to underwater work. The term appears in job listings, training materials, and occupational classifications in French-speaking regions.