Jordan Pond House
Jordan Pond House
Currently recruiting for the season from May 4th, 2026 to October 29th, 2026.
Dawnland operates the historic Jordan Pond House Restaurant, a tradition that began in the 1890's serving iconic popovers on the lawn overlooking idyllic Jordan Pond. We also operate three retail gift shops, which are located in some of the most beautiful spots in Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain, Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond.
Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island, Maine. It was the first national park established, east of the Mississippi River. It boasts 26 mountains (with the tallest being Cadillac Mountain), miles of rocky coast and two dozen ponds and lakes.
- Location
- Maine
- Season
- Spring, Summer, and Fall
- Staff size
- 150
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Family housing available
- No
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Some meals / discounts
- Cell phone service
- Some, ask for details
- Internet access
- Intermittent
About Jordan Pond House
Are you inspired by scenic beauty? It doesn't get any better than Acadia National Park. You can work at the historic Jordan Pond House, Cadillac Mountain or Thunder Hole in a variety of departments including food and beverage, retail gifts or maintenance! We have opportunities in all of our locations. You could spend your summer serving our iconic popovers on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond. You could be assisting guests at one of our gift shops at Jordan Pond, atop scenic Cadillac Mountain at our Eco Center or seaside at the Thunder Hole Gift Shop. It's up to you.....all you have to do is apply!
The Employee Experience
Dawnland offers a unique employee experience with planned weekly activities ranging from hiking, biking, kayaking, karaoke nights, frisbee golf, gym memberships...the list goes on and on. We want you to have a truly amazing experience both on the clock and off.
Acadia National Park is roughly a 4.5 hours drive to Boston, Massachusetts, 3 hours to Portland, Maine and 8.5 hours to New York City, New York.
Our great Dawnland team is international! We employ people from all over the world which only makes for an even richer work experience. Plus, you get the added benefit of serving guests from around the world...a win, win!
At the end of the season, you may have opportunities to transfer to other ExplorUS National Parks locations to further your career trajectory...Hawaii, California, Arizona, Kentucky, etc.
Dawnland offers affordable in and out-of-park employee housing so what are you waiting for...apply now!
Ideal Candidate
Acadia is highly visited and we are busy! We need staff that are excited, hardworking, and flexible. However, our most successful employees are those who want to enjoy the whole experience of working in Acadia National Park. They not only work hard, but strive to take advantage of all the opportunities that the Park and the surrounding area has to offer. Ideal employees should be enthusiastic about learning the traditions and history of Acadia National Park and The Jordan Pond House. Additionally, as a growing company, we are always looking for employees that are pursuing a career and would like to grow with us.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Our operating dates are from early/ mid-May until late October. Opportunities for late season arrivals (August-October as well). We give preference to applicants who are able to work the entire season.
Room and Board
Employees may reside in our rustic employee dormitory located in the park near the Jordan Pond House, in our off-site, company apartments, near Hadley Point in Bar Harbor or in a condo unit near downtown Bar Harbor.
Dorm residents have the advantage of living inside Acadia National Park with numerous hiking and biking trails right off their backyard. Dorm residents will have 1-3 roommates. For those working at the Jordan Pond House, the commute is a 3-5 minute trail walk to work. Dorm residents will share a bunk-room with other residents and are provided with diverse and healthy meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Included in the room and board charge is free laundry, bulk amenities such as laundry detergent, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. Other provided conveniences are bed linens, free Wi-Fi, and satellite TV.
Our company-owned apartments are each two bedrooms. Each apartment is shared by up to four residents. Our centrally located apartment complex is 13 miles from the Jordan Pond House and 8 miles from downtown Bar Harbor and about 12 miles from Ellsworth. A free employee shuttle will take you to and from work. For trips to Bar Harbor or the Park, on your days off, the apartments are on the route of the free public bus line, the Island Explorer. This is a great option for those who want to buy and cook their own meals, and prefer apartment-style living over dormitory life. Each apartment is furnished and provided with basic kitchen appliances (toaster, microwave, and coffee maker), as well as dishes and utensils. Free on-site laundry is also provided. Residents are responsible for their own meals, linens, toiletries, and cleaning products.
Our company-owned condominiums are one bedroom units. Each condo is shared by two people. One condo can house three people. A free employee shuttle will take you to and from work. The condos are 8 miles from the Jordan Pond House. This is a great option for those looking for a quiet location but the amenities of living near town. Each condo is furnished and provided with basic kitchen appliances (toaster, microwave, and coffee maker), as well as dishes and utensils. On-site coin laundry is also provided. Residents are responsible for their own meals, linens, toiletries, and cleaning products.
All housing options are supervised by Dawnland Acadia Management. All employees will be required to sign a housing agreement and pay a housing deposit. The housing deposit is deducted from your first two paychecks.
Couples housing may be available!
Employees may find their own housing but please keep in mind that seasonal housing is in short supply and you must inquire months in advance. We do not offer RV hookups although many private campgrounds in the area do. You must make inquiries and reservations well in advance.
Employee Perks
Some of the perks of employment with us are; a dining room with a lounge area to unwind, pick up a book from the dorm bookshelf, watch a movie or play board games. We have a volleyball court at the dorm as well as a limited number of bicycles for employee use. Other assorted sporting equipment is also available for employee use. Regularly scheduled group activities will also be available. Last year's activities included; participation in sports leagues, shopping trips, and mini-golfing.
All employees are also provided with a free employee park pass, which allows you full access to the Park during your employment period. As an alternative to getting your exercise in the Park, we will pay a portion of your seasonal membership to the Mount Desert Island YMCA.
We also offer significant discounts on retail and gift merchandise as well as personal meals.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Fly into Bangor and ride the Downeast Shuttle to Bar Harbor, Maine! Car-free travel/living is possible thanks to the free Island Explorer shuttle, Dawnland's employee shuttle and other connecting transportation options.
Employees not arriving by car can be met in Bar Harbor, ME with advance notice.
For Fun
Need a break from all those beautiful Park vistas? The towns of Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and several other villages on Mount Desert Island offer shopping and dining options for every taste and budget. Whale watches, nature cruises, museums, cinemas, music festivals, theaters, and other activities are available for both the sunny and rainy days off.
Dreamed of visiting Nova Scotia, Canada? You can hop on the CAT ferry in Bar Harbor and take a cruise into Canada on your day off!
Acadia National Park and the surrounding areas have endless activities to enjoy. Aside from Acadia National Park’s over 120 miles of hiking trails, and over 45 carriage trails to hike or bike on; there are kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, fishing and rock climbing opportunities in the park.
For those with vehicles, taking the time to explore other areas that are off Mount Desert Island, is a day off well spent. A visit to Bangor (approx. 1 hr. from the Jordan Pond House) to shop or see a concert or to explore areas such as Baxter State Park, West Quoddy Head or Camden Hills, will create more summer memories.
Current Job Openings
- Assist the Executive Chef and Sous Chef in ensuring that the menu, which cannot be changed without Corporate F&B approval, and guest service expectations, as set forth by the Employee Handbook are being met or exceeded.
- Become a strong member of an efficient and highly motivated culinary team focused on surpassing expectations by presenting a positive, can-do attitude every day
- Adhere to defined Company recipes and Safe Food Handling procedures in order to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
- Complete all required food and safety logs in a timely and efficient manner per Company procedures and Federal, State, and Local regulations
- Obtain ServSafe or State Food Handler Certification in accordance with F&B company policy
- Comply with time and attendance policies and be able to work a variety of day, night, weekend and holiday shifts as requested
- Understand Company’s ISO (Environmental & Quality) management systems, Health and Safety standards, policies, goals and initiatives and meet the specific responsibilities within these areas
- Adherence to Duties Checklist and other duties as assigned
- Knowledge of food preparation and storage, sanitation requirements and commercial kitchen equipment
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with many types of personalities in a positive and productive way
- Majority of shift will be spent on feet in a fast-paced environment and in close proximity to other people
- Ability to lift 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally
- Frequent bending, twisting, lifting, and squatting
- Seating Management: Greet guests warmly and manage the seating chart, ensuring efficient and timely seating during busy hours.
- Reservation System Management: Use reservation software such as Resy, OpenTable, or other systems to track guest reservations, waitlists, and seating arrangements.
- Guest Communication: Maintain clear and professional communication with guests regarding wait times, seating availability, and general inquiries.
- Tempo Control: Ensure the restaurant operates smoothly by controlling the pace of seating to maintain a balanced flow of guests, avoiding overcrowding or delays.
- Collaboration: Work closely with servers, kitchen staff, and management to communicate guest needs and special requests.
- Consistency and Organization: Manage busy environments, consistently seating guests while ensuring high service standards are maintained throughout peak hours.
- Guest Experience: Ensure that guests are greeted with a friendly and welcoming attitude, making them feel valued and taken care of from the moment they arrive.
- Outdoor Enjoyment: Since our location offers beautiful outdoor seating, the ability to enjoy and work in a picturesque outdoor setting is essential.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role, ideally in busy restaurants with waitlists.
- Proficient in using reservation software like Resy, OpenTable, or similar systems.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to stay upbeat and professional, even during busy periods.
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations, maintaining composure and efficiency during peak times.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage guest flow and seating efficiently.
- A solid attendance record, demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic.
- Must enjoy the outdoors and be comfortable working in an environment where outdoor seating is a key component of the guest experience.
- Earn Tips: Enjoy the benefits of a tip pool that averages generous hourly rates throughout the season.
- Iconic Location: Work in one of Maine’s most stunning and historic settings, located within Acadia National Park.
- Collaborative Team: Join a supportive and dynamic team that strives for excellence in guest service and teamwork.
- Growth Opportunities: Gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry and grow within our organization.
- Outdoor Experience: Enjoy a unique work environment with access to scenic outdoor seating and beautiful surroundings.
- Local Flexibility: Ideal for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking to build a rewarding experience in a well-known location.
- Employee Shuttle: Limiting drive time and parking hassles, park at any of our housing locations and ride in to work.
- Greet customers within 30 seconds of entering the store & provide friendly customer service
- Achieve and maintain product knowledge to assist customers with purchasing decisions
- Guide and direct customers to appropriate products of interest and answer related inquiries
- Assist customers with all park related inquiries (utilizing approved NPS interpretive information)
- Assist customers making selections by building customer confidence; offering suggestions and opinions
- Accurately total, process and collect payments from guests to include, but not limited to, using the point of sale system, handling money, processing credit and debit cards and making change
- Restock and maintain displays (labeling correctly as needed) per Company standards
- Achieve established sales goals
- Participate in closing, opening procedures
- Participate in daily cleaning/maintenance duties
- Strict adherence to all store policies
- Contribute to a positive environment where all employees trust and respect each other
- Understand Company’s ISO (Quality and Environmental) management systems, policies, goals and initiatives, and meet the specific responsibilities within these areas
- Other duties per the Duties checklist and as assigned
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills to interact positively with others
- Ability to multi-task and perform well under pressure
- Display energy and enthusiasm when working with customers and fellow Associates
- Dependable to always be on time and on schedule
- Able to lift frequently up to 25 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs. Position also involves frequent bending, twisting, lifting and squatting and up to 8 hours per day on feet in a fast paced environment.
- Assist the Kitchen Manager and Lead Cook in ensuring that the menu, which cannot be changed without Corporate F&B approval, and guest service expectations, as set forth by the Employee Handbook are being met or exceeded.
- Become a strong member of an efficient and highly motivated culinary team focused on surpassing expectations by presenting a positive, can-do attitude very day.
- Adhere to defined Company recipes and Safe Food Handling procedures in order to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
- Complete all required food and safety logs in a timely and efficient manner per Company procedures and Federal, State, and Local regulations
- Obtain ServSafe or State Food Handler Certification in accordance with F&B company policy
- Comply with time and attendance policies and be able to work a variety of day, night, weekend and holiday shifts as requested
- Understand Company’s ISO (Environmental & Quality) management systems, Health and Safety standards, policies, goals and initiatives and meet the specific responsibilities within these areas
- Adherence to Duties Checklist and other duties as assigned
Kitchen Steward
Summary of Position:
Responsible for receiving, dating and rotating of stock and overseeing proper operations and
sanitation of dish-room.
Responsibilities:
● Accurate receiving and logging in of all food and non-food products for entire kitchen
operation
● Ensure proper dating & rotation in all appropriate storage areas
● Notify Executive Chef of any discrepancies with deliveries pertaining to all food items
● Maintain dish machine temperature logs twice daily
● Ensure proper chemicals on dish machine and pot sink
● Oversee food waste, recycling and trash efforts to meet sustainability efforts
● Maintain cleanliness of kitchen and food storage areas
● Practice correct food handling and food storage procedures according to Federal, State,
Local regulations and Company procedures
● Comply with time and attendance policies
● Understand Company ISO (Environmental & Quality) management systems, Health and
Safety standards, policies, goals and initiatives and meet the specific responsibilities
within these areas
● Actively participate in maintaining a positive work environment that fosters
camaraderie and teamwork
● Other duties per Duties Checklist and as requested
Position Requirements:
● Knowledge of food preparation and storage, sanitation requirements and commercial
kitchen equipment
● Obtain ServSafe or equivalent certification as required by Company policy
● Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to interact with many
personality types in a positive and productive way
● Majority of shift will be spent on feet in a fast-paced environment and in close proximity
to other people
● Be able to work a variety of day, night, weekend and holiday shifts as requested
● Ability to lift 25 lbs. frequently and up to 50 lbs. occasionally. Frequent bending,
twisting, lifting and squatting will be required
Education and Experience:
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Experience:
Minimum of one (1) year restaurant experience required
Prep Cook
Summary of Position:
Responsible for preparing food items in accordance with Corporate recipes and established standards in the Company’s efforts to deliver extraordinary hospitality.
Responsibilities:
Position Requirements:
Education and Experience:
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Experience:
Culinary training/experience (1 year minimum)
Host
We are seeking an enthusiastic and professional Host to join our team at Jordan Pond House. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, with a strong focus on providing an excellent guest experience. As a Host, you will play a key role in managing guest flow, ensuring smooth seating arrangements, and maintaining communication with both guests and the front-of-house team. The expectation is to provide exemplary customer service to all guests by being proficient in all aspects of FOH operations. Each restaurant associate will be trained in all FOH positions and can be expected to perform distinct roles on any given day to fulfill the needs of the operation. This position offers the opportunity to earn a share in the tip pool.
Key Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
Why You'll Love about Working at Jordan Pond House:
Retail Associate
This job starts in late April or May and runs through November. Short date applicants are welcome from August-November. Thank you!
Responsibilities:
Position Requirements:
Education and Experience:
Education:
High school diploma or equivalent
Experience:
Demonstrated ability to handle general math
Minimum 1 year retail sales experience preferred
Minimum 1 year experience with POS systems preferred
Cook
How to Apply
We have an online application - it will be very helpful to have detailed information (education and work history - dates, contact information, addresses, etc) when you are ready to complete an application.
Please begin the process by clicking the APPLY HERE button below to review our JOB LIST. You will see a list of our available positions. By clicking on a position title you will view the job description and you will have the opportunity to click on a link to apply for the position.
Please email with any questions.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Contact Info
- Shannon Tracy
- stracy@goexplorus.com
- (913) 340-8599
- jordanpondhouse.com
