ZipRider
Aerial ZipRider View
ISP Whale Watching Tour
ISP Kayak Tour
Icy Strait Point Dancer Group on Dock
Wilderness Landing Dock
Keet Plaza
Bear Watch Tour
Old Cannery Photo
Both Docks
Aerial View of Adventure Dock
Walking Path
Hoonah, Alaska
Cannery Buildings
Whale Watching
Bear Search Tour
Icy Strait Point Aerial Shot
Staff Olympics
Fresh Dungeness Crab
Retail Employees
Salmon Shop
Bear Search Tour

Experience an authentic and remote Native village with Alaska-sized adventures and unspoiled wilderness

Icy Strait Point

Currently recruiting for the season from April 15th, 2026 to September 30th, 2026.

Have you always wanted to spend a summer working in a remote Alaskan village while expanding your customer service skills? Has the beauty of Alaska been calling your name? Are you looking to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you enjoy being a part of a team and working in the tourism industry? If so, Icy Strait Point wants to talk to you!

Icy Strait Point is a private cruise ship destination located on Chichagof Island in the archipelago of Southeast Alaska. One of four communities on the island, it is the largest Tlingit community in Alaska and has a population of 765 year round residents.

Location
Alaska
Season
Spring, Summer, and Fall
Staff size
250
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
About $200 per month for employee housing with a roommate.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
No
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Some meals / discounts
Cell phone service
Yes, most carriers
Internet access
Good

About Icy Strait Point

About Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is now hiring for the 2025 cruise ship season (April through October) with positions available in a variety of areas including tour guides, sales, food & beverage, CDL drivers, retail and much more. Located 40 miles west of Juneau on Chichagof Island, Icy Strait Point is located in the rural community of Hoonah, Alaska (population 765), which is accessible only by plane or boat.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Built as a salmon cannery in 1912, Icy Strait Point had several incarnations before being restored by a local Native corporation into a private cruise ship destination. It requires approximately 225 team members to operate our site; therefore we are in full operation only when there is a ship in port (209 visits from late April to late-September). Some positions work on non-call days but primarily our workweek is 5-6 days per week, some days are longer than others.

We offer numerous tours and excursions including whale watching, wildlife search, world's largest ZipRider, two aerial gondolas, fishing, walking tours, etc. Additionally, we have multiple food and beverage venues and retail shops. We are a one-day destination and do not offer overnight lodging for guests.

Check us out on Facebook: Icy Strait Point

The Employee Experience

Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native owned and operated with all profits directly supporting the local community. We provide a work environment that focuses on teamwork and having a positive attitude that leads to lasting memorable summer experiences. Employees are expected to come with a learning mindset, ready and eager to participate in providing excellent customer service to our guests.

While we understand the summer season can be challenging with long hours, we value our employees and strive to provide enjoyable employee moments such as team building, recreation, and other opportunities as available. You can expect to attend a selection of fun employee events where you are able to hangout and get to know the others that make Icy Strait Point great! Employees who share the enthusiasm for tourism and meeting new people with a positive work attitude can only help make our work environment more enjoyable and our team stronger!

Do note that you will be living in a small village, so be ready to get to know the outdoors even more, where fishing will become your new best friend! Things like fast food is just non existent here, and with only one grocery store, options are limited. With that being said, our on site restaurants are fantastic and we offer discounts to all Icy Strait Point employees. 

Ideal Candidate

Come join our team for 2025!  

We are looking for individuals with the following skills:

  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Enjoys working with the public on a daily basis
  • Works well with others
  • Understands the importance of being flexible
  • Dependable and reliable
  • A passion for the outdoors
  • A ready to learn mindset

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply! 

Room and Board

Icy Strait Point does offer employee housing for employees in Hoonah, Alaska.

There is a flat monthly rate that is payroll deducted if you choose to stay in company housing. 

Please note: due to limited housing, you will have a roommate and shared common areas (kitchen, restrooms, laundry facilities).

We do provide each house with basic furniture including pots/pans, dishes, single twin beds.

No pets accommodated due to amount of people in housing, space limitations, rural setting and long work hours.

Employee Perks

  • Signing Bonus
  • Seasonal Incentive Bonuses ranging up to $1,200 may be earned based on performance and length of employment
  • 40% discount on meals at Icy Strait Point
  • 25% discount in ISP’s retail shops
  • Free tours and excursions on a space-available basis
  • Employee events

Getting Here and Getting Around

We will cover your travel from Juneau to Hoonah, dependent upon availability the options are the Alaska Marine Highway state ferry or the small regional airline, Alaska Seaplanes.  Please note that the largest aircraft is a 9-seater and ferry service is not daily.

It is the employee's responsibility to make their own travel arrangements from their home to/from Juneau, Alaska. Alaska Airlines is the major airline that operates from Seattle to Juneau.

Once here, it is 4 miles from one end of town to the other so walking or bicycles are easily an option. Icy Strait Point does provide complimentary transportation to and from work from employee housing.

For Fun

Hoonah is a small village and much of the joy of being here is the peaceful, outdoorsy, unique lifestyle that is truly Alaska. One must be able to find their own ways of having fun, whether it's spending time with newfound friends on a picnic 'out the road,' going fishing, photography, hiking, camping, reading, bird watching, learning a new craft, watching TV, or computer time. We are not so off the grid that internet connections aren't available but we don’t have the same quality of speed and connection that you're probably used to, so please be prepared for that. Hoonah is home to a tight-knit community, rooted in Tlingit culture, and we encourage you to surround yourself in it and learn from the locals.

Loading video...

Jobs in the Spotlight

Current Job Openings

    Excursions

    Excursions

    Care Cart Driver

    $18.00 / hour

    Care Cart Driver

    📍 Hoonah, Alaska | 🗓 April – September 2026 | 💵 $18/hr + Bonus Potential

    Do you enjoy helping people and making their day a little easier? As a Care Cart Driver at Icy Strait Point, you’ll play a key role in creating a welcoming and accessible experience for our guests—especially those who need a little extra assistance getting around.

    You’ll be the friendly face that transports cruise ship visitors and independent travelers across our beautiful site, offering a safe, smooth, and informative ride through one of Alaska’s most stunning destinations.


    What You’ll Do

    • Safely transport guests—prioritizing those with mobility needs—to various locations around Icy Strait Point.
    • Learn and follow cart routes, responding quickly to calls for transport.
    • Participate in all required training.
    • Provide friendly greetings and basic site orientation for arriving guests.
    • Share general information about Icy Strait Point, its tours, and venues.
    • Take tickets, load/unload passengers, and assist with programs as needed.
    • Promote and distribute Icy Strait Point information and merchandise.
    • Support other excursion or guest service teams when required.
    • Other duties as assigned.

    What We’re Looking For

    • A valid driver’s license (Driver for Hire card preferred).
    • Age 25+ preferred for insurance purposes.
    • Great customer service and communication skills—you’ll be engaging with guests from all over the world.
    • Willing to learn about Tlingit culture and Icy Strait Point history.
    • Current First Aid/CPR certification preferred.
    • Friendly, dependable, and safety-conscious.

    Physical Requirements & Work Environment

    • Able to sit for extended periods while driving.
    • Comfortable working long hours during peak cruise season.
    • Must meet vehicle weight guidelines.
    • Willing to live in a remote Alaskan community, traveling by small plane or ferry to and from Hoonah.
    • Able to operate safely in variable weather and on gravel roads.
    • Ability to lift 50 lbs. repeatedly and comfortably.

    🌲 Why Join Us?
    At Icy Strait Point, every role helps create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our guests. As a Care Cart Driver, you’ll be part of a supportive team, live in a breathtaking remote community, and work for a Native-owned company that values authenticity, culture, and sustainability.

    👉 If you’re ready to put a smile on someone’s face while driving through Alaska’s wilderness, we’d love to hear from you!

     

    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638.   

     

    Apply Now
    Excursions

    Tour Bus Driver (CDL)

    $30.00 / hour

    Tour Bus Driver

    📍 Hoonah, Alaska | 🗓 April – September 2026
    💵 $30/hr + Bonus Potential | ✈️ Travel Stipend Included

    Are you a people person who loves being behind the wheel? Join Icy Strait Point as a Tour Bus Driver and spend your season in stunning Southeast Alaska, where you’ll connect guests with breathtaking views, Tlingit culture, and unforgettable adventures.

    This isn’t your typical driving job—you’ll be the first friendly face many of our guests meet, helping them feel welcome while safely transporting them to their excursions and around our one-of-a-kind site.


    What You’ll Do

    • Safely transport cruise and independent guests to and from excursions and site locations.

    • Greet guests warmly, check tickets, and assist with boarding.

    • Share general information about Icy Strait Point and the local area.

    • Provide excellent customer service while keeping tours on schedule.

    • Keep your bus clean, fueled, and guest-ready each day.

    • Promote other Icy Strait Point venues, distribute literature, or assist with merchandise when needed.

    • Step in to support other programs or duties as assigned.


    What We’re Looking For

    • Valid Class A CDL with Passenger endorsement (no air brake restriction) and a current DOT Medical Certificate.

    • Strong customer service and communication skills—you’re as much a host as a driver.

    • Willingness to learn about and share Tlingit culture.

    • Ability to sit for extended periods and safely operate on gravel roads in all weather conditions.

    • Current First Aid/CPR certification (preferred).


    Why Drive With Us?

    🚌 Competitive pay ($30/hour + bonus potential)
    🌲 Live and work in one of Alaska’s most scenic, remote communities
    ✨ Travel stipend included to assist with travel costs
    🤝 Be part of a supportive team passionate about culture and hospitality
    🌊 Create unforgettable moments for guests from around the world


    👉 Ready to hit the road in Alaska’s wilderness and make every ride an adventure? Apply today to join our team as a Tour Bus Driver at Icy Strait Point!

    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638.  

    Apply Now

    Facilities

    Facilities

    Heavy Equipment Operator

    $21.00 / hour

    Position Title: Heavy Equipment Operator (Seasonal)
    Reports To: Lead Facilities Supervisor
    Category: Seasonal, Non-Exempt
    Salary Range: $21.00 per hour


    Position Summary

    The Heavy Equipment Operator supports Facilities operations at Icy Strait Point by safely operating a variety of heavy equipment and assisting with general site maintenance, logistics, and infrastructure support. This role is essential to maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient environment for guests and employees during the operating season.


    Essential Duties and Responsibilities

    • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, forklifts, dump trucks, graders, bobcats, work skiffs, and porta potty service trucks

    • Conduct pre-operation inspections of all equipment to ensure safe and proper functioning

    • Coordinate with the Fleet and Parts Coordinator to submit and track maintenance work orders through Fleetio

    • Assist with landscaping and site improvement projects across ISP

    • Support freight pick-up and delivery needs for all departments

    • Service and maintain porta potties, including operating the porta potty truck

    • Assist with site security needs as required

    • Perform general maintenance and upkeep of ISP facilities, including tents, gutters, trash receptacles, site houses, and portable restrooms

    • Maintain public areas including doors, lighting, sinks, windows, bathrooms, and other guest-facing infrastructure

    • Respond to maintenance requests in a timely and professional manner

    • Support overall Facilities team operations and other duties as assigned


    Physical Requirements & Work Environment

    • Ability to operate heavy machinery in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and uneven terrain

    • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly

    • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and climbing

    • Work performed outdoors in a dynamic, fast-paced tourism environment


    Qualifications

    • Experience operating heavy equipment such as excavators, forklifts, and similar machinery required

    • Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred

    • CPR/First Aid Certification required or ability to obtain upon hire

    • Familiarity with equipment maintenance and inspection practices

    • Strong safety awareness and adherence to operational protocols

    • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

    • Strong work ethic and reliability in a seasonal, high-demand environment


    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638. Applicants must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States.

    Apply Now
    Facilities

    Public Area Attendant

    $19.00 / hour

    Public Space Attendant – Seasonal Role in Alaska

    📍 Hoonah, Alaska | 🗓 April – September | 💵 $19.00/hr + Bonus Potential

    Do you take pride in keeping spaces spotless and welcoming? At Icy Strait Point, our Public Space Attendants ensure that all guest areas—from restrooms to outdoor spaces—are clean, safe, and inviting. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys hands-on work, pays attention to detail, and wants to be part of a team that creates an unforgettable experience for guests from around the world.

    What You’ll Do

    • Keep all public facilities neat, clean, and guest-ready at all times.
    • Sweep, mop, scrub, wax, and polish floors.
    • Clean restrooms, walls, ceilings, and windows.
    • Maintain outdoor spaces by emptying trash, cutting wood, and tending fires.
    • Polish furniture, fixtures, and metalwork.
    • Move and arrange furniture as needed for events or seasonal cleaning.
    • Ensure equipment (vacuums, trolleys, scrubbers) is maintained and used safely.
    • Follow cleaning schedules and report maintenance issues promptly.
    • Assist guests in public areas with questions or requests.
    • Promote a positive, welcoming image of Icy Strait Point at all times.
    • Perform other duties as assigned.

     

    What We’re Looking For

    • Friendly, reliable, and team-oriented with a strong work ethic.
    • Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor spaces, sometimes in changing weather.
    • Able to communicate effectively in English with guests and coworkers.
    • Experience in housekeeping or maintenance is a plus, but we’re happy to train the right candidate.

     

    Physical & Work Environment

    • Able to bend, stretch, kneel, squat, and stand for long periods.
    • Able to lift up to 40 lbs. and swing an ax to cut wood.
    • Must be comfortable working in noisy areas with odors present.
    • Work may include unheated buildings and extended hours during peak season.
    • Willing to live in a remote Alaskan community, traveling by small plane or ferry as needed.
    • Comfortable walking or driving on gravel roads in inclement weather.

     

    Why Join Us?

    This isn’t just a cleaning job—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team that keeps one of Alaska’s most unique destinations running smoothly. At Icy Strait Point, you’ll meet people from all over the world, enjoy meaningful work in a beautiful setting, and gain experience with a Native-owned company that values authenticity and excellence.

    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638.  

     

    Apply Now

    Marine Ops

    Marine Ops

    Boat Captain

    $30.00 - $35.00 / hour

    Captain – Whale Watching & Marine Tours

    📍 Hoonah, Alaska | 🗓 Seasonal (April - Early October) | 💵 $30/hour + bonus potential + Travel Stipend

    At Icy Strait Point, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable guest experiences in one of the most breathtaking marine environments in the world. We’re looking for a skilled Captain to lead whale watching tours and marine excursions, ensuring safety, professionalism, and adventure on every voyage.

    As Captain, you’ll be responsible for operating vessels, supervising deckhands, maintaining logs, and most importantly, creating a world-class guest experience while navigating Alaska’s pristine waters.


    What You’ll Do

    • Safely operate and navigate vessels using GPS, radar, charts, depth finders, radios, and visual markers.

    • Dock and undock vessels, often in tight spaces, with precision and confidence.

    • Adjust navigation plans based on weather and wildlife activity for guest safety and satisfaction.

    • Maintain detailed records of voyages, whale sightings, passenger counts, and fuel use.

    • Supervise deckhands and ensure tour narration is accurate, authentic, and engaging.

    • Conduct safety drills (fire, man overboard, flooding, medical, abandon ship, etc.) in compliance with USCG regulations.

    • Oversee vessel upkeep, including cleaning, restocking, and equipment maintenance.

    • Act as an ambassador of Icy Strait Point, greeting guests with professionalism and ensuring their experience is both safe and memorable.

    • Preform other duties as assigned.


    What We’re Looking For

    • Minimum 3 years of vessel operating experience.

    • USCG Master’s License – 25-ton minimum (50-ton required for 49-passenger boats).

    • Strong knowledge of USCG and CFR 46 regulations.

    • Current First Aid/CPR (preferred) and Radio Operator’s License.

    • Clean driving record and ability to be insurable.

    • Excellent leadership and communication skills; able to guide both guests and crew.

    • Willingness to learn and share Tlingit culture and local knowledge (marine life, plants, animals, birds).

    • Commitment to safety, teamwork, and delivering an authentic Alaskan experience.


    Physical Requirements & Work Environment

    • Able to lift 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and walk 5+ miles daily.

    • Comfortable working outdoors in varying Alaskan weather conditions.

    • Willing to live in a remote, rural community for the season.

    • Must be comfortable traveling by small plane or ferry to/from Hoonah.


    Why Join Us?

    🌊 Be part of Alaska’s premier whale watching and marine tour destination.
    🌊 Lead exciting voyages in a world-class natural setting.
    🌊 Competitive pay with opportunities for seasonal return and growth.
    🌊 Work with a supportive team in a Native-owned enterprise that values culture, authenticity, and sustainability.

    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638.

    Applicants must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States.   

    Apply Now

    Retail

    Retail

    Barista

    $17.00 / hour + tips

    Barista – Seasonal Adventure in Alaska

    📍 Hoonah, Alaska | 🗓 April – Early October | 💵 Hourly + Bonus Potential

    Love coffee and creating connections? At Icy Strait Point, our Baristas do more than craft lattes and cappuccinos—they’re the first smile guests see in the morning and the energy boost fueling their Alaskan adventure.

    This is a seasonal role in remote, beautiful Hoonah, Alaska—perfect for anyone who enjoys fast-paced teamwork, learning new skills, and delivering excellent guest experiences in a one-of-a-kind setting.

    What You’ll Do

    • Create high-quality coffee and tea drinks with speed, precision, and a smile.

    • Learn and master specialty drink techniques unique to our coffee bars.

    • Ring up guest purchases accurately using the Point-of-Sale system.

    • Maintain a clean, stocked, and organized workspace.

    • Provide friendly, professional service—even during the morning rush.

    • Support your team by jumping in to help with retail cashiering or other tasks when needed.

    • Follow all health, safety, and sanitation standards.

    • Perform other duties as assigned.

     

    What We’re Looking For

    • A people-person who enjoys working in a guest-facing role.

    • Someone who thrives in a busy, high-energy environment.

    • Reliable, punctual, and adaptable to changing needs.

    • Comfortable working on your feet all day, climbing stairs, and lifting up to 40 lbs.

    • Retail or barista experience is a plus, but not required—we’ll teach you!

    • Willing to live and work in a remote Alaskan community (ferries, small planes, gravel roads, and unpredictable weather included).

    • Must be able to obtain and maintain a TAPS card and Alaska Food Handler’s Card.

     

    Why Work With Us?

    At Icy Strait Point, you’ll gain more than barista experience—you’ll be part of a tight-knit seasonal team, meet people from around the world, and live in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth.

    Icy Strait Point is a Native-owned and operated enterprise and offers Native Preference under P.O. 93-638.   

    Apply Now

How to Apply

Apply Now

Contact Info

About CoolWorks

Since 1995, CoolWorks has connected adventure-seekers with job opportunities in amazing places—from national parks to ski resorts, summer camps to dude ranches. We help people trade screen time for real time—meaningful experiences that spark connection and growth. Your next great adventure is waiting. More About CoolWorks

Need Help?

Check out our Help Center for FAQ's and helpful articles on how to use CoolWorks. For more in-depth information on how to navigate the world of Jobs in Great Places®, whether you're a Job Seeker or an Employer, visit our Resources page.
Scroll Less. Live More.