Hospitality Staff
Live and Work Where Art Meets Nature
Imagine waking up to the sound of a violin drifting across a pine forest, with two crystal-clear lakes just a short walk away. Welcome to Interlochen Center for the Arts – one of the most famous arts institutions in the United States, located in the heart of Northern Michigan. Every summer, thousands of talented young musicians, dancers, actors and visual artists gather here, along with visitors who come for the legendary Interlochen Arts Festival. And this summer, you could be part of the team that makes it all happen.
We are looking for energetic and friendly Hospitality Staff to join our Work & Travel USA program from summer through fall. This is your chance to earn money, practise English every single day, and build friendships with students from all over the world.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Welcoming guests, families and visiting artists with a warm smile and excellent customer service
- Assisting in dining halls, cafés and campus food service areas – serving, restocking and keeping stations neat
- Supporting housekeeping and guest accommodation teams to keep rooms and public spaces spotless
- Helping at front desk and information points, answering questions about campus events and directions
- Setting up and cleaning up for concerts, festivals, receptions and special events
- Working as part of an international team and supporting colleagues wherever needed
Why Interlochen, Michigan?
Interlochen sits between Green Lake and Duck Lake, surrounded by 1,200 acres of pine forest – a true Northern Michigan paradise. In your free time you can swim, kayak, cycle the trails, or explore nearby Traverse City, famous for its cherry orchards, sandy beaches and the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. As a staff member, you will also have the chance to attend performances by world-class artists right on campus – something guests travel across the country to experience.
Pay & Benefits
- $14.73 per hour – a competitive rate for a seasonal hospitality role
- 32 hours per week guaranteed, with a schedule that leaves time to explore
- Employer-supported housing on or near campus (details confirmed at placement)
- Free or discounted access to selected concerts, recitals and campus events
- Meals available on campus during shifts
- Safe, welcoming, student-friendly community with staff from dozens of countries
- Real US work experience for your CV and a strong reference letter
What We’re Looking For
- University students aged 18–25 eligible for the J-1 Work & Travel USA visa
- Conversational English and confidence speaking with guests
- A positive attitude, reliability and a genuine desire to help people
- Ability to stand, walk and lift light items during shifts
- Flexibility to work mornings, evenings and weekends – event season is busy!
- Previous hospitality experience is a plus, but full training is provided
Ready for Your American Summer?
This position runs from summer into fall, giving you extra weeks to earn and travel while Michigan turns into a spectacular autumn landscape. Places are limited and fill quickly – apply today and start your Work & Travel USA adventure at Interlochen Center for the Arts!
About Michigan
Michigan's Great Lakes shores, Mackinac Island and resort towns make for a classic lakeside summer. Students work in island hotels, resorts and restaurants surrounded by beaches and forests.
