Maintain our wilderness houseboat fleet and marina while delivering exceptional guest experiences

Posted: Oct 19, 2026

Marine Mechanic & Resort Operations Specialist

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

Babbitt, Minnesota

Wages/Pay
$16.00 - $20.00 / hour + tips
Experience Level
Some experience required
Job Start Date
Nov 01, 2026

Your Basecamp for the Boundary Waters Awaits

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats is not a RV park; it is a 22.44-acre wilderness resort operating on 1,482 feet of pristine, 85% undeveloped federal wilderness shoreline on Birch Lake. We are looking for highly capable Workampers to serve as the operational backbone of our 15-cabin resort, 13-vessel houseboat fleet, and 25-slip marina. We have entirely abandoned the outdated, exploitative "work-for-your-site" barter model. Instead, we offer a transparent W-2 payroll structure, premium full-hookup RV sites with zero hidden utility fees, and a culture that treats you as a core team member rather than temporary labor. If you possess the physical stamina, technical capability, and appreciation for the true Northwoods, this is your next deployment.

The Operational Details

  • What (The Roles): We hire for two primary tracks. Skilled Marine Trades & Maintenance focuses on keeping our motorized fleet running (outboards, 12v electrical) and servicing cabin infrastructure. High-Energy Guest Operations focuses on rapid cabin turnarounds, detailed housekeeping, and high-touch marina customer service.

  • Who (Our Culture): We operate under the brand ethos of "Timber Bay Tough meets Northwoods Hygge," acting as the "Explorer-Caregiver" for our guests. We expect professional accountability, and in return, we integrate you fully into the resort lifestyle.

  • Where (The Location): Located in Babbitt, Minnesota, we anchor a 20-mile reservoir that serves as a direct gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. You get the profound silence and world-class trophy fishing of the Superior National Forest without the restrictive park permits or paved-over commercialism.

  • When (The Season): We are actively recruiting for EITHER an immediate start to assist with off-season projects (November 1 – March 30, working 32 hours/week) OR an early spring start for the peak season (April 1 – October 31, working 40 hours/week).

  • How (Compensation & Housing): We pay competitive cash wages for every hour you work: $16/hr during the off-season and $18/hr during the peak season. You will be provided a premium site capable of handling a large Fifth Wheel with 30/50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. To ensure strict state labor compliance, site rent is handled via a nominal, voluntary post-tax payroll deduction. Critically, we absorb standard utility costs—no submeters, no nickel-and-diming. You also earn a $1.00/hr Accrual Completion Bonus paid as a lump sum at the successful end of your contract.

  • Why (The Perks): Beyond the paycheck, you live in the "Accessible Wilderness". Core team members receive off-hours access to our recreational fleet (canoes, kayaks, and motorized boats) to explore Birch Lake, along with discounts on propane and Trading Post items.


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How to Apply

How to Apply: The Four-Gate Process

To ensure complete alignment between your lifestyle and our operational needs, we do not process applications through third-party "Quick Apply" buttons. All prospective core team members progress through our central intake portal.

  1. Submit Your Profile: Visit www.timberbay.com/apply and select the "Live-in Workamper" option. You will be required to provide your RV specifications (Class, Length, Amperage) to ensure site compatibility, and select your preferred start date (Immediate Off-Season or Spring 2027).

  2. Digital Assessment: If your rig fits our infrastructure and your skills match our operational tracks, you will be invited to a brief video interview to evaluate cultural and technical fit.

  3. Reference Audit: We operate a high-trust, tight-knit environment. We will request and verify professional references to protect our team standard.

  4. The Handshake: Once cleared, we finalize your W-2 paperwork, execute your voluntary site deduction agreement, and lock in your basecamp for the season.

Ready to claim your spot on Birch Lake? Head to our site and initiate the process today.

Apply Now

Contact Info

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

Founded in 1947, Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats is a premier 22-acre wilderness resort bridging rugged capability with refined comfort. We operate 14 traditional cabins, a 13-vessel commercial houseboat fleet, and a 25-slip full-service marina. Positioned as the ultimate "Explorer-Caregiver," we provide elite logistical support and high-touch service for anglers, off-roaders, and families.

Location
Minnesota
Staff size
14
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Rental apartmens are available in Babbit and Ely just minutes from our location. In addition... We provide premium full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp, water, sewer) capable of accommodating large Fifth Wheels and Class A motorhomes. Critically, we do not use electric submeters to nickel-and-dime you; all standard utilities are fully covered. Beyond the site, you get off-hours access to our recreational fleet (canoes, kayaks, motorized boats) to explore the 85% undeveloped Birch Lake wilderness.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
No
Pet friendly
Yes
Meals
Some meals / discounts
Cell phone service
Yes, most carriers
Internet access
Good
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