Experienced Waterfront Staff- Summer 2026

Coons Franklin Lodge is looking for an Experienced Waterfront Staff member to join our team for the summer of 2026! Situated on the beautiful shores of Trout Lake, our historic lodge has been a haven for families seeking adventure and relaxation for over a century. The experienced waterfront staff play a critical role in delivering safe, fun, and memorable experiences for our guests at the waterfront.

In this role, you will be responsible for supervising waterfront activities, operating and maintaining watercraft, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Your expertise in water sports will allow you to provide guests with exceptional guidance and instruction, with an emphasis on water safety and enjoyment of recreational activities.

Join us at Coons Franklin Lodge, where you will work in a vibrant team environment, contribute to a culture of hospitality, and make a lasting impact on our guests' summer vacation experience.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Current CPR and First Aid certification are mandatory, along with a valid WI boating license.
• Demonstrated experience and proficiency in water sports, preferably with a background in instructing guests in water-related activities.
• Strong knowledge of boating regulations and safety practices.
• Ability to operate various types of watercraft and ensure proper maintenance.
• Excellent communication skills for providing clear instructions and promoting safety.
• Proficient in managing waterfront activities and engaging guests enthusiastically.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License and have a willingness to work in outdoor conditions.
• Physical ability to assist guests and perform strenuous tasks as needed.

Room and Board

We provide dorm-style housing and 3 staff meals a day. We can accommodate most dietary requests. Room and board will be deducted from your paycheck at the rate of $65 per week.

Employee Perks

Fun Things to Do at Coons When Off Duty

We highly encourage all our staff to make use of the beautiful Northwoods and the resort activities available while not working. How often do you get to live at a resort?

Activities:

There is a beautiful trail winding throughout the resort property. Biking, jogging, and hiking are very popular. Everyone is welcome to explore. Basketball is a favorite.

Tennis Courts:

There are four courts on the premises. During the time the courts are not in use, all employees are welcome to take advantage of the courts. We ask the following things: Permission is needed, proper tennis attire is required (whites), tennis shoes only, no running shoes. Should any guest want to come and use the courts, vacate the court promptly and courteously.

Waterfront:

Trout Lake is one of Wisconsin’s finest. There are two docks located on the waterfront. The swimming dock is for guest use only. All employees are welcome to use the boat dock. Employees are welcome to use the following equipment: sailing, water-skiing, canoes, rowboats, and kayaks. No motor boats. You must check out all equipment with the proper resort personnel. Once again, guests have first preference.

Golf:

Trout Lake Golf Course is located 2 miles north of the resort off HWY 51. We get a 20% discount! For more information see: http://www.troutlakegolf.com/main.html

Yoga: Staff can join our guest Yoga class In the Lodge, Tuesdays at 10 am. It would help if you pre-registered with Emily or Sarah due to the limited spots available.

Getting Here and Getting Around

We are located about 10 miles from the towns of Woodruff and Minocqua. I would say about 50% of our bring an automobile with them. There is minimal public transportation and biking on the highway is discouraged.

For Fun

Fun Things to Do in the Area

Music in The Park- Sunday Nights in Manitowish

https://manitowishwaters.org/things-to-do/music-in-the-park/

Big Top Chautauqua- Although a little bit far away, but a world-renowned musical venue:

https://www.bigtop.org/

Hiking

Map it Vilas County. Great app to find hiking spots to meet your needs:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/map-it-vilas-county/id881933385

Biking

• Trails:
• Bike Rentals: Coontail: https://coontail.com/pages/rental-rates-2022Urur