HAP Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

Spend Your Summer Where the Mountains Meet the Kenai River

Imagine finishing your shift and stepping outside to snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial rivers and the smell of spruce forest in the air. That’s everyday life at HAP Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge in Cooper Landing, Alaska — one of the most breathtaking Work & Travel USA destinations in the country. We’re hiring energetic university students for the Dish Steward position from summer through fall.

Your Role as a Dish Steward

The kitchen is the heartbeat of our lodge, and the dish team keeps it beating. You’ll be an essential part of a fast-moving, supportive crew that feeds hundreds of happy travelers every day.

• Operate commercial dishwashing machines and wash dishes, glassware, flatware and cookware by hand when needed
• Keep the dish pit, kitchen floors, work surfaces and storage areas clean, organized and safe
• Sort, stack and return clean items to the kitchen, restaurant and banquet areas
• Take out trash, break down boxes and support recycling and waste programs
• Assist chefs and kitchen staff with basic prep tasks and stocking when time allows
• Follow all health, sanitation and food-safety standards

Why Cooper Landing, Alaska?

Cooper Landing sits on the famous Kenai River, surrounded by the Chugach National Forest and just a short drive from Kenai Fjords National Park and the town of Seward. On your days off you can hike alpine trails, spot moose, bears and bald eagles, try world-class salmon fishing, raft the rapids, or watch the midnight sun light up the sky at 11 p.m. It’s the kind of summer you’ll be telling stories about for the rest of your life.

What You’ll Get

• $16.00 per hour with 40 guaranteed hours per week (overtime often available)
• Seasonal position running from summer to fall — a longer season means more earnings
• Employee housing and meal options available at the lodge
• A truly international team — make friends from all over the world
• Real U.S. hospitality experience for your CV and a big boost to your spoken English
• Employee discounts, staff activities and access to legendary Alaskan adventures

What We’re Looking For

• University students aged 18–25 with a valid J-1 Work & Travel visa
• Reliable, punctual and ready to work hard as part of a team
• Conversational English and a friendly, positive attitude
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 20 kg in a warm, humid kitchen environment
• Flexibility for early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays
• No previous experience required — full training is provided

Please note: tips are not part of this position, but the guaranteed hours, steady schedule and overtime opportunities make it an excellent earner.

Ready to trade the ordinary summer for glaciers, wildlife and lifelong friendships? Apply now — Alaska is waiting.