Resort Worker
Work Where America’s History Is Carved in Stone
Imagine starting your workday with a view of four U.S. presidents carved into a granite mountainside. As a Resort Worker with Xanterra at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, you’ll be part of the team that welcomes millions of visitors from around the world to one of the most photographed landmarks on the planet. This is more than a summer job – it’s a front-row seat to American culture, nature, and adventure.
What You’ll Be Doing
Xanterra operates the dining, retail, and guest services at Mount Rushmore, and resort workers are the heart of the operation. Depending on your placement and the daily needs of the team, your responsibilities may include:
- Serving guests at the Carvers’ Café, ice cream shop, or coffee bar – taking orders, preparing food and beverages, and keeping the counters spotless
- Working in the gift shop and bookstore: greeting visitors, restocking merchandise, and operating the cash register
- Bussing tables, washing dishes, and supporting the kitchen team during busy service periods
- Maintaining clean and welcoming public spaces, dining areas, and work stations
- Answering visitor questions and offering friendly recommendations about the memorial and the Black Hills
- Assisting with opening and closing procedures and general resort operations
Life in Keystone, South Dakota
Keystone is a lively little mountain town at the gateway to Mount Rushmore, surrounded by the pine-covered peaks of the Black Hills. It’s small, safe, and packed with summer energy – think main-street shops, saloon-style restaurants, alpine slides, and gold-mine tours.
On your days off, you’ll be minutes from Custer State Park (home to a free-roaming bison herd), the incredible Crazy Horse Memorial, the winding Needles Highway, Wind Cave and Jewel Cave National Parks, and the legendary Wild West town of Deadwood. Hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the U.S. are all part of everyday life here. Many students extend their trip to visit Yellowstone, Denver, or Chicago after the season ends.
Pay & Benefits
- $13.50 per hour with approximately 36 hours per week
- Overtime opportunities may be available during peak season
- Employee housing available on or near property (deducted from paycheck)
- Employee discounts on meals and retail merchandise
- Work alongside an international team of students from around the world
- Free access to one of the most famous national memorials in the world
- A genuine U.S. National Park work experience for your CV
Who We’re Looking For
- University students aged 18–25 participating in the Work & Travel USA program
- Conversational English skills and a confident, friendly attitude with guests
- Reliable, punctual, and ready to work as part of a team
- Comfortable standing for long shifts and working weekends and holidays
- Flexible and open-minded – you may be cross-trained across several departments
- Available from summer through fall (early departures are not ideal for this placement)
Ready to Make This Summer Legendary?
Positions at Mount Rushmore fill quickly every season – it’s one of the most requested placements in the entire Work & Travel USA program. Apply early, pack your hiking boots, and get ready for a summer you’ll be telling stories about for years.
About South Dakota
Южна Дакота е дом на Маунт Ръшмор, Блек Хилс и безкрайните прерии. Студентите обикновено работят в курорти, ресторанти и атракции около парковете, наслаждавайки се на приятелско американско лято в малък град.