Fat Bear Lodge

Spend your summer with the fat bears!

Perched on the banks of the world-famous Naknek River, within the Bristol Bay watershed, Fat Bear Lodge is a premier adventure lodge dedicated to providing unparalleled experiences that seamlessly incorporate luxury with the raw wilderness of Alaska.

On the shore of Naknek River, just outside Katmai National Park. It has unparalleled access to incredible wildlife views, world-class fishing, hiking, ATVing, and a short river trip to Brooks Falls to see the bears.

About Fat Bear Lodge

Fat Bear Lodge is the premier destination in King Salmon, AK. We are a positive, hospitality focused team promising an unforgettable summer work experience. We are looking for team members to fill spots for boat crew, shuttle service, kitchen staff, room service and fishing guides. Board, excellent food and drinks provided. Pay is competitive, plus tips! The season runs from June - September.


The lodge is particularly famous for its exclusive boat access to Brooks Falls, where guests can witness one of the most iconic wildlife spectacles in the world—bears fishing for salmon up and down the banks and in the falls.

In addition to bear viewing, visitors can enjoy world-class fishing or take advantage of easy access to hiking trails and ATV rides that showcase the stunning beauty of the area. 

For guests seeking to explore further, Fat Bear Lodge also offers fly-out trips to see walrus colonies and other wildlife that call the Alaskan coast home, creating a truly diverse and exciting experience. 

The lodge itself provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for guests, offering a range of accommodations, including cabins and rooms that blend rustic charm with modern amenities.

Imagine living for a summer surrounded by this beauty!  If you are up for an adventure, hard work, and providing great guest services, this is the place for you!

The Employee Experience

Working at Fat Bear Lodge in King Salmon, Alaska, offers a unique and immersive experience, especially for those who thrive in nature.  Employees at the lodge are part of a tight-knit team catering to guests seeking adventure, tranquility, and the beauty of Alaska.

From mid-June - September, the lodge is buzzing with tourists, especially bear watchers and anglers, and employees can expect a busy atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to have an early morning start, preparing for a busy day of adventure tours and guest activities, with downtime in the evenings spent around the fire pit enjoying the natural beauty of the area, perhaps even witnessing a majestic brown bear from the comfort of the lodge.

Staff are provided with amazing meals that are prepared by our lodge chef. Employee housing is provided at no cost.

Ideal Candidate

An employee at Fat Bear Lodge would be someone who enjoys a combination of hard work, outdoor adventure, and the chance to live in one of the most stunning settings. The experience is ideal for those looking for a balance between guest services, outdoor exploration, and the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in an Alaskan summer. 

We need employees who can work well with others, maintain a positive demeanor the entire season, and have the initiative to jump in and work hard. We have a variety of positions so you can find one that best suits you!

Room and Board

Room and board are provided..  We have a very limited number of private rooms, the others are double occupancy.  Bathrooms are shared.  All meals are provided and prepared by our lodge chef.  

Employee Perks

Working at Fat Bear Lodge comes with a range of attractive perks. Employees enjoy competitive pay and the opportunity to earn tips, which add to your overall compensation.

For returning employees, the lodge goes the extra mile by covering travel expenses if the season is completed in full.

On a personal level, you have great opportunities to recreate in your downtime including trips to Katmai National Park/Brooks Falls, fishing the Naknek, and various hikes.  You are also given 10 free drinks (either beer or wine) a month.

Employees also have access to Starlink internet.

Getting Here and Getting Around

King Salmon, Alaska, is just a short, one-hour flight from Anchorage. New hires are responsible for arranging and booking their own flights, but for returning employees, Fat Bear Lodge takes care of the travel arrangements, booking and paying for flights.

Once you land in King Salmon, a lodge shuttle will be there to greet you at the airport. For those who need to run errands or make trips into town during the season, there is a communal vehicle available, but usage requires manager approval to ensure it’s being used appropriately and efficiently.

For Fun

Time off can be spent in many ways, including fishing, ATVing, boat rides to Brooks Falls, exploring Katmai National Park, or relaxing around the fire and enjoying the views from the lodge.

How to Apply

Please send a resume to employment@fatbearlodge.com with a note about which job position you are interested in, and we will reach out for an interview.

Contact Info

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