Stout's Island Lodge
Stout's Island Lodge
Currently recruiting for the season from May 1st, 2026 to October 31st, 2026.
Stout’s Island is a private resort offering lodging, fine dining, and event hosting—primarily weddings. Our season runs from May through October, and we make the most of every moment, so there’s never a dull day. Our roles are fast-paced and hands-on, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among staff. When your commute involves taking a boat to work, it’s hard not to love what you do.
Located on Red Cedar Lake in Birchwood, Wisconsin, Stout’s Island Lodge offers the perfect Northwoods setting. The island is just two hours west of the Twin Cities and two hours north of Duluth and Lake Superior, making it an accessible yet secluded getaway.
- Location
- Wisconsin
- Season
- Summer and Fall
- Staff size
- 30-40
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- Housing available both on the island and off the island.
- Meals
- Some meals / discounts
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
About Stout's Island Lodge
At this time, we are not able to accommodate H-2B or J-1 workers.
Stout’s Island Lodge is an upscale, private island resort located in northern Wisconsin on Red Cedar Lake. The island spans 18 acres and is rich with lush, abundant plant life. Surrounded by clean, clear water, staff can enjoy their days off swimming, kayaking, or renting a pontoon to visit nearby resorts for live music and outdoor events—all without ever needing a car. Getting to and from work is part of the experience—you’ll travel by boat!
During the week, we host guests visiting for vacations, honeymoons, and corporate retreats, with many enjoying meals in our gourmet restaurant. On weekends, the island transforms into an exclusive venue for private weddings.
Our clientele primarily come from the Twin Cities, Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago, seeking a peaceful escape from city life in the Northwoods. While guests appreciate attentive service, they are consistently kind, respectful, and genuinely interested in the staff who care for them.
Working at Stout’s Island Lodge is a unique experience that includes a variety of island-specific responsibilities. One of the most important roles is the boat driver, which involves much more than transportation. Our environment is fast-paced and hands-on, and we strive to make the most of each season while fostering teamwork, camaraderie, and creative problem-solving.
The Employee Experience
Someone once said, “A bad day on the island is better than a good day in the office”—and those of us who have had the opportunity to work here know that’s absolutely true.
At Stout’s Island, we take great pride in the camaraderie among our staff. There’s something special about taking a boat to work and the positive effect it has on everyone’s mood. Our team works together to create unforgettable experiences for our guests—moments they’ll talk about all summer long and return to relive year after year.
If you’ve never traveled to Wisconsin, Stout’s Island and the Birchwood area are perfect examples of its natural beauty. Over the course of our six-month season, you’ll experience a full range of seasonal changes—from spring greenery and blooming flowers to warm summer nights, and finally the vibrant colors of fall. The island is surrounded by more than 20 pristine lakes within a 30-mile radius, along with charming small towns that host festivals filled with live music and local culture.
Working on the island means spending much of your day outdoors—and depending on your role, time on the water as well. We do our best to match staff with positions where they can thrive, and we encourage cross-training to provide opportunities to learn new skills and gain diverse experience.
Because we operate with a small team, strong relationships naturally form. We prioritize making every staff member feel valued and supported. Open communication and mutual respect are essential to our success—because when our team feels good about coming to work, it shows. Our goal is for every employee to leave the season not only with valuable knowledge and experience, but also with a strong sense of belonging and teamwork.
Ideal Candidate
Our ideal candidates are hardworking, team-oriented individuals who are willing to jump in and help wherever needed. Like any seasonal resort, our days are busy and full of activity, so adaptability is key. All staff should bring a positive attitude, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Room and Board
We offer two options for employee housing: on-island accommodations and an off-island private house connected to our check-in location on shore.
On-island housing includes three double-occupancy rooms, each with a private bathroom and a small kitchen. Our off-island housing features a private home with three bedrooms, along with a shared bathroom, living space, and full kitchen.
Housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rates are $200 per month for a shared room and $300 per month for single occupancy.
Employee Perks
50% discount on employee meals during low restaurant volume while on shift
50% discount for friends and family when dining at the lodge
50% discount at all sister properties in the Twin Cities
50% off all merchandise and apparel
Complimentary team jackets
Getting Here and Getting Around
Due to our rural location, public transportation options are limited. Employees staying on or near the island can easily get to work without a car; however, having access to personal transportation, such as a car or bicycle, is recommended for days off, as nearby attractions and towns are spread out.
Transportation from airports or train stations can be arranged for new staff upon arrival.
For Fun
There’s no shortage of things to do in the area all season long. Lake life is at the heart of the experience—swimming, kayaking, and fishing are all right at your doorstep. If you prefer to stay on land, the Blue Hills are just 15 miles away and offer excellent hiking, including access to the Ice Age Trail. For biking enthusiasts, the renowned CAMBA trails in Hayward are about 35 miles away.
Beyond outdoor recreation, the area is home to a variety of seasonal resorts, restaurants, and bars, many of which feature live music nearly every day of the week during the summer.
Small-town festivals are also a regular highlight throughout the season, offering a fun and authentic way to connect with the local community. The area is welcoming, vibrant, and full of unique Northwoods charm.
Current Job Openings
- Ensure the safe and timely passage of guests to and from the island and other places as applicable, including delivering luggage and guests to/from their rooms
- Ensure guests are given the best first impression possible; given a full and complete tour (including history and important locations) and are given any necessary clarification.
- Ensure company watercraft are driven safety and ensure each craft is ready for each journey (safety equipment, fuel levels, cleanliness, etc.)
- Ensure guests safely embark and disembark watercraft(s).
- Ensure all equipment is clean, tidy, and in good working order including boats, lawn mowers, golf carts, etc. Treats this equipment with due respect.
- Ensure guest outdoor recreation areas and equipment are kept clean, painted (as applicable) and in good working order (lawn furniture, kayaks, canoes, hydro-bikes, tennis court, etc.)
- Ensure cleanliness of outdoor common areas including boat house, powerhouse, and swim docks.
- Remove trash from island and deliver to dumpster on shore.
- Ensure deliveries for all departments are delivered to their proper locations.
- Clean second story awnings, screens, etc. that housekeeping is unable to reach with a broom
- General handyman responsibilities.
- maintaining a clean and organized work area
- keeping front of house and back of house dishes clean and stored properly
- helping maintain proper product storage
- help maintain overall cleanliness in the kitchen and cleaning schedules for equipment and food storage areas
- helping in the kitchen with light prep and the opportunity to work on the line.
- Able to lift 50 lbs
- Able to work most weekends
- Able to be on feet for long periods of time
Maintain a stocked line
Execute all restaurant menus
Ability to follow recipes
Complete simple baking tasks
Keep up with all sanitization
Maintain cleanliness standards
Ability to be on feet for majority of shift
Ability to lift at least 25 lbs.
Knife skills
Executive Chef/Kitchen Manager
Seasonal Executive Chef (May 2026 – October 2026)
Location: Stout’s Island Lodge, Birchwood, WI
Position Type: Seasonal / Full-Time
About Stout’s Island Lodge: Stout’s Island Lodge is a premier resort nestled in the heart of the beautiful Birchwood area, offering a unique, high-end experience for guests seeking tranquility, adventure, and a memorable getaway. Our lodge features luxury accommodations, spectacular views, and an exceptional culinary program that is central to the guest experience.
Position Overview: Stout’s Island Lodge is seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team for the 2026 season. This role is responsible for overseeing all back-of-house (BOH) operations, including kitchen management, menu development, and execution of daily restaurant service as well as weddings and large-scale events.
The Executive Chef will ensure the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation, while maintaining an efficient, organized, and positive kitchen environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Menu Creation & Development:
· Design and create innovative, seasonal menus that reflect the lodge’s commitment to fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
· Adapt menus to accommodate guest preferences, dietary restrictions, and special events.
· Ensure all dishes are executed with consistency and presented beautifully.
· Plan and execute menus for weddings, private events, and large-scale catering
· Adapt quickly to high-volume service and event-based demands
Kitchen Operations:
· Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
· Manage kitchen staff and ensure they are trained, motivated, and adhere to all health and safety regulations.
· Ensure a high level of cleanliness and organization in all kitchen areas.
Staff Management:
· Recruit, train, and supervise kitchen staff, including sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen assistants.
· Create a positive and collaborative work environment to promote efficiency and teamwork.
· Perform performance reviews and manage staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage.
Inventory & Cost Management:
· Monitor and control food inventory, ordering supplies as needed while minimizing waste.
· Maintain food cost budgets and ensure that all food and beverage items meet financial targets.
· Implement efficient storage and handling practices to maximize the longevity of ingredients.
Guest Satisfaction:
· Ensure that every dish meets the lodge’s high standards of quality and guest satisfaction.
· Be proactive in addressing any guest feedback or special requests, ensuring a personalized experience.
· Occasionally interact with guests to gather feedback and provide an engaging, elevated culinary experience.
Compliance & Safety:
· Maintain knowledge of local health and safety regulations and ensure compliance in all kitchen operations.
· Ensure the kitchen is fully compliant with all sanitation and food safety guidelines.
· Handle kitchen accidents or emergencies and report accordingly.
Qualifications:
· Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef, preferably in a fine dining or resort environment.
· Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety standards.
· Demonstrated ability to create innovative and exceptional menus.
· Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
· Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
· Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage food costs and budgets.
· Ability to work collaboratively in a team and maintain a positive work environment.
· Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Preferred Skills:
· Culinary degree or equivalent formal training.
· Experience with sourcing local ingredients and sustainability practices.
· Familiarity with special dietary restrictions and allergen-free cooking.
Why Join Stout’s Island Lodge?
· Competitive salary and benefits package.
· A unique and beautiful work environment on a private island in a premier lodge setting.
· Opportunity to work with a team dedicated to excellence in both service and hospitality.
· Professional development and growth opportunities.
If you are a passionate, creative chef with a dedication to excellence, we encourage you to apply for the Executive Chef position at Stout’s Island Lodge. Help us continue to provide exceptional dining experiences for our guests in an unforgettable setting.
Server/Bartender
Talented servers are excellent multitaskers, problem solvers, and handle stress with a can-do attitude and a smile. Our servers will have the opportunity to serve a variety of different foods, wines, and beers. They are expected to have a working knowledge of the items they are serving and how the tastes and flavors complement one another. Our chef assists in this area to help make sure our servers are prepared.
Our restaurant serves all three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At breakfast, we serve a hot breakfast menu. Lunch is more casual cuisine, and dinner is fine dining. We also service many events, especially weddings. These events can range in size from 10 to 175.
We have a few different serving shifts, they are as follows:
AM Server: Works breakfast and lunch and helps set up for daily events. Shifts between 6:45 AM and 4:00 PM, basic bartending experience desired. Part-time and full-time positions available.
PM Server: Works dinner and evening events. Shifts between 12:00 PM and 11:00 PM (sometimes later, depending on events); serving and bartending experience strongly preferred. Part time and full-time positions available.
We do not have a full time bartending position available as our servers double as the bartender. Most nights are not busy enough to have a fully devoted bartender, so instead we train our servers in as bartenders who can make their own drinks. During peak season, we will rotate servers to be scheduled as the bartender for dinner service.
DUTIES
Ensure guests are seated and served in a timely manner.
Ensure guests in Great Room lounge are served in a timely manner.
Exceed guests’ expectations with an exceptional dining experience.
Ensure the cleanliness of restaurant, bar, and Great Room areas, as well as back of house server areas.
Ensure work areas are stocked and ready for the next shift.
Ensure all paperwork associated with your shift is completed and turned in. Assist guests with inquiries regarding the restaurant and the property.
Fully knowledgeable with all food and beverage menus.
Assist with kitchen cleanliness, including washing dishes.
Qualifications:
Minimum 1 year work experience
Previous hospitality experience a plus
Ability to retain a working knowledge of food and beverages served onsite
Ability to multi-task
Ability to problem solve
Ability to handle stressful situations
Ability to carry large trays of food and beverages
Alcohol Server Training & Licensing (We can assist in obtaining)
Boat Driver
Boat drivers are our guests’ first point of contact when they arrive at the resort. These individuals serve as our front desk staff and bellhops for our guests. The primary responsibility of a boat driver at Stout’s Island Lodge is to drive guests to and from the island via boat, provide excellent customer service to our guests by getting them checked into their room, providing them a tour of the property and their room, and bringing their luggage and any other requested items to their room in a timely manner.
Our boat drivers are also responsible for some handyman duties on the premises, such as checking the levels of our LP tanks, delivering trash to the dumpsters on shore, cleaning gutters and exterior windows, collecting trash on trails and grounds, stacking wood for fireplaces, starting fires in common areas and for guests, lawn and garden maintenance, and light maintenance on our boats and golf carts. While these tasks are secondary to providing excellent service to our guests, they are also very important and contribute to our guests’ overall experience. Therefore, any qualified candidate will be able to perform these tasks with little to no direct supervision.
Boat driver is a vague title for a reason. There are many miscellaneous tasks that a boat driver may be asked to perform on an irregular basis. Most of these tasks will involve moving objects (large and small) from place to place. Ultimately, there will be few things that are not in a boat driver’s “typical” job description that (s)he may be asked to do for events, for guests, and for managers and other staff members. The ability to judge which tasks should be prioritized is an important skill that a qualified candidate will have.
As the title implies, this position requires the ability to pilot several types of water craft—primarily pontoons. For insurance purposes, all employees that drive the company watercraft must have completed their boat safety course and be able to provide proof of completion before being scheduled for their first shift.
CREDENTIALS AND EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Previous hotel experience preferred.
Previous customer serviced experience required.
Maintenance experience preferred.
Boat Safety course-provided by company if not already completed
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to stand 2/3 of workday.
Ability to walk 2/3 of workday.
Ability to lift 50 pounds
Ability to climb stairs and walk rugged terrain
Ability to work outdoors
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Able to pilot watercraft
Ability to work weekends
Ability to learn the unique aspects of Stout’s and sell rooms to our guests.
Ability to work with or without supervision
Excellent verbal and written communications
Cheerful attitude and willing to go the extra mile Flexible and like a variety of work
Fluent in English.
Excellent interpersonal skills required.
Must maintain a professional, neat, clean appearance and practice good personal hygiene.
Construction, carpentry, roofing, lawn care, and/or small engine repair experience desirable
DUTIES:
Dish Washer
The dishwasher is the most important job in the kitchen. We rely on the help our dishwasher to ensure proper sanitization and cleanliness.
The dishwasher will primarily be responsible for but not limited to:
Requirements:
Sous Chef
Position: Seasonal Sous Chef
Location: Stout’s Island Lodge, Birchwood, Wisconsin
Reports To: AGM, Chief Operating Officer, Owner
Employment Type: Seasonal (May 2026 – October 2026)
About Stout’s Island Lodge: Located on its own private island in the heart of Red Cedar Lake, Stout’s Island Lodge is a premier seasonal destination renowned for its exceptional dining, rustic elegance, and unforgettable guest experiences. Our culinary team prides itself on delivering creative, high-quality cuisine inspired by local and seasonal ingredients.
Position Overview: Stout’s Island Lodge is seeking an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team. As a Sous Chef, you will play a key role in overseeing the kitchen operations, assisting with menu creation, ensuring the highest quality of food preparation, and leading a talented team of cooks in a fast-paced environment. You will work closely with the Executive Chef to execute high-end dishes for our guests and special events while maintaining a focus on efficiency, consistency, and food safety.
Key Responsibilities:
· Assist in the planning and execution of the daily menu, ensuring high-quality dishes are prepared and served to guests.
· Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff to maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and safety.
· Manage kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation, in line with company standards.
· Ensure food is prepared in an organized, timely, and efficient manner for both a la carte and group meals, with attention to detail.
· Assist with inventory management, including ordering supplies, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring waste reduction.
· Enforce food safety and cleanliness standards in accordance with health department regulations.
· Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop and implement new menus and special event dishes.
· Handle customer feedback and dietary requests, ensuring all needs are met with professionalism.
· Help manage kitchen staff scheduling and ensure smooth workflow during high-demand periods.
· Maintain an organized, clean, and safe kitchen environment.
Qualifications:
· Proven experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar culinary leadership role, preferably in a resort or fine dining setting.
· Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food preparation standards.
· Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
· Ability to manage multiple tasks and thrive under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
· Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
· Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
· Flexible schedule, with availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
What We Offer:
· Competitive salary and benefits.
· A beautiful and unique work environment at Stout’s Island Lodge, with access to beautiful natural surroundings.
· Opportunities for growth and professional development.
· A supportive, team-oriented work atmosphere.
If you are a skilled and dedicated chef with a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences, we invite you to apply for the Sous Chef position at Stout’s Island Lodge. Join us and be a part of a dynamic team that delivers unforgettable experiences to our guests!
Line Cook
This position will prequire the ability to cook breakfast , lunch, and dinner menus. Line cooks will also assist with prep and execution of events. We would like to see at least one year of cooking experience.
Other Requirements:
Housekeeper
JOB OVERVIEW
Our housekeepers take pride in the cleanliness of all parts of our resort from guest rooms to common areas, both inside buildings and outside buildings. Excellent housekeepers possess an excellent attention to detail—catching even the smallest cobweb in the most unseen locations. Housekeepers are responsible not only for cleanliness and order of the rooms and common areas, but also ensure that all amenities promised in each room are present and in working order.
Skilled housekeepers are capable of changing sheets on beds, scrubbing, dusting, moping, sweeping, etc. as well as moving from room to room across a 16-acre island. Typical shifts for this position are six to eight hours between 7 AM and 8 PM.
Housekeepers must also be very personable when interacting with guests and be able to anticipate their needs.
CREDENTIALS AND EXPERIENCE
Minimum 1 year of work experience preferred
Previous hotel experience a plus
Previous housekeeping/cleaning experience a plus
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to stand 2/3 of workday.
Ability to walk 2/3 of workday. Ability to talk and hear. Ability to lift 25 pounds
Ability to work outdoors-in all types of weather
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Detail-oriented
Customer-service oriented
Ability to work weekends
Ability to climb stairs and walk rugged terrain
Ability to work with or without supervision
Excellent verbal and written communications
Cheerful attitude and willing to go the extra mile
Flexible and like a variety of work
Excellent interpersonal skills required.
Must maintain a professional, neat, clean appearance and practice good personal hygiene.
DUTIES
Ensuring cleanliness of guest rooms per Stout’s Island Lodge standards.
Ensuring cleanliness of common areas (inside & outside) per Stout’s Island Lodge standards.
Ensure cleanliness of Shore House waiting area
Ensure all amenities promised to each guest are in working order.
Ensure laundry is completed, folded, and stocked for the beginning of each shift
Miscellaneous tasks as assigned.
How to Apply
Please send your resume to jwallskog@cwcos.com.
You may also submit an application through our website using the “Apply” link below.
Contact Info
- Thanh Hoang
- thoang@cwcos.com
- (651) 332-4532
- www.stoutsislandlodge.com
