The Tavern is in the original kitchen of the 1793 building.

Experience Peak Season at One of the 50 Best Restaurants in the US

Posted: Jun 28, 2026

Cook, Server, Bar Lead

The Ark

Deer Isle, Maine

Wages/Pay
$7,000.00 - $14,000.00 / season + tips
Experience Level
Previous experience required
Job Start Date
Jul 10, 2026

Come Be Part of Something Real.

The season is underway, our restaurant is full, and we're looking for a few exceptional people to join our team for the busiest—and best—months of the year.

The Ark is a historic waterfront inn and restaurant in the heart of Deer Isle, Maine. Named one of the New York Times' Top 50 Restaurants in the U.S., we're building something rooted in hospitality, community, and a genuine love of this place. Alongside our Tavern, we host a rotating Chef in Residence series in our Dining Room, featuring acclaimed chefs from around the country.

We're currently hiring:

Cook
Work in an ingredient-driven kitchen alongside our team and visiting chefs from across the country. From seasonal, cravable Tavern fare to our Chef in Residences' ambitious menus , you'll gain experience across a wide variety of cuisines while cooking with exceptional Maine ingredients in a collaborative kitchen.

Server
If you love creating memorable guest experiences, enjoy working in a fast-paced dining room, and appreciate thoughtful food and hospitality, we'd love to meet you. Our servers earn competitive tips while working with a supportive team that values professionalism, warmth, and genuine care for every guest.

Bar Lead
Lead the bar at Deer Isle village's only bar. This role combines bartending with creativity and leadership—helping shape our beverate program, running the operations of the bar (inventory, ordering, etc.), and creating a welcoming gathering place for locals and travelers alike. This is a tipped position with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on one of the most vibrant spaces in our historic inn.

Why The Ark?

  • We help with housing—some of which is just steps from work

  • Staff meal is provided daily

  • Competitive pay and strong earning potential for tipped positions

  • A close-knit, genuinely supportive team

  • Work-life balance with schedules not exceeding 5 days/week

  • Live and work on the coast of Maine through the end of October

  • Be part of a restaurant recognized among the country's best

If you're looking for more than just a summer job—if you want to spend the season doing meaningful work with good people in an extraordinary place—we'd love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Please email your resume, which role you're interested in, and a bit about what makes you a good fit for the role to us at join@arkdeerisle.com. 

Apply Now

Contact Info

The Ark

The Ark (formerly Pilgrim's Inn) features fifteen 15 rooms and cottages in the heart of Deer Isle, Maine. New owners took over the property in 2025, bringing a fresh perspective to a storied place while honoring its roots as a home built in 1793. Just a few months after opening last year, The New York Times recognized The Ark as one of the top fifty restaurants in the country.

Location
Maine
Season
Summer and Fall
Staff size
30
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
We have limited housing for employees offered at affordable rates. We also have connections to housing, resources, and more and are sometimes actively involved in helping our team find safe, affordable housing options.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
Yes
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Some meals / discounts
Cell phone service
Yes, most carriers
Internet access
Good
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