Backcountry Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

May 23rd, 2026 - July 31st 2026

August 1st, 2026 - October 21st, 2026

Ready to dive into epic outdoor adventures and make a positive impact on the environment? Look no further than the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) - the oldest conservation, education, and recreation organization in the USA!  Our passion for the outdoors knows no bounds, and we want YOU to be a part of it. As an employee, you'll unlock access to exciting programs, policies, and procedures that empower you to make a real difference. Join the AMC team now and embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Cardigan Lodge sits at the base of Cardigan Mountain in Alexandria, New Hampshire. The lodge offers a self-service experience to guests in the winter, complete with dynamic hiking and ski trail systems available just outside the front door. The reservation serves campers, with 26 primitive campsites, and a rustic cabin that sits half a mile from the summit.  
AMC is seeking seasonal Lodge Crew for Cardigan Lodge.  This entry level position entails a variety of food service, housekeeping, and operational duties with a focus on providing an exceptional experience for each guest and visitor. Cardigan Lodge Crew is a full-time, seasonal position which includes room and board. The position requires excellent communication and teamwork skills and consistent support of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s mission.

What You’ll be doing at AMC:

• Create a positive experience for each guest and visitor by providing exceptional customer service
• Respond to all guest complaints and special requests in a respectful and professional demeanor
• Interact with guests by providing information on local recreation opportunities, lodge amenities, organizational efforts, and available programs
• Participate in meal planning
• Prepare and cook daily meals
• Participate in the set-up, service, and cleanup of daily meals
• Participate in the daily cleaning and upkeep of guest rooms, bathrooms, shared areas, campsites, and privies
• Assist with lodge room and campsite reservations check-in and check-out
• Assist with retail sales in the lodge store
• Participate in deep cleaning of lodge spaces and additional special projects as instructed
• Assist with general groundwork and maintenance
• Implement energy conservation and environmentally sound practices in daily operation
• Retain positive interactions and connections with supporting businesses and colleges
• Participate in the success of communal living by committing to a respectful, clean, and safe environment

What AMC is looking for

• 18 years and older
• Experience in hospitality, food service or outdoor recreation is preferred
• Experience in customer service and exceptional communication skills
• Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced work environment
• Success in performing a wide range of assigned tasks with attention to detail
• Ability to resolve conflicts with a calm and respectful demeanor
• Must work well in a team and have enthusiasm for communal living
• A love for the outdoors! A commitment to the mission of the Appalachian Mountain Club
• Ability to operate standard office and maintenance equipment
• Physical abilities needed: Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds on-site and in the backcountry. Ability to travel safely in the backcountry in all weather conditions

What AMC Can Offer You

Salary range: $13.79/hr

We are committed to fair compensation practices, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply. The initial salary represents our starting point, and our compensation philosophy is designed to reward and recognize the contributions of our employees as they grow within the organization. External candidates typically begin their journey with us at the starting point of the salary range. The final compensation offer will be based on factors such as experience, education, skills and geographic differential relevant to the position, and will be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits

• Benefits:

• Room & Board: Dorm-style room $75/week – meals included, too!
• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 30 hours per week 
• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution
• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service
• Other Team Member Perks: 
  • 30% discount on AMC Merchandise 
  • Free Annual AMC Membership
  • 4 Free nights at AMC locations
  • Prodeal discounts on equipment & gear and more!

To Apply:

Please include a resume and cover letter. No phone calls or agencies please. 

AMC encourages all interested candidates to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification. If you have a passion for the outdoors and believe your skills and experiences align with this role, we welcome your application. 

The Appalachian Mountain Club has zero tolerance for child abuse or placing children in danger. The AMC requires all employees who work in a program or facility which serves children, disabled persons, or the elderly to have a criminal background record check performed on their name annually with employment contingent upon satisfactory results.