Would you like to get paid $140k to live on a rock in the middle of the San Francisco Bay? I know i sure would…
East Brother Light Station is looking for new innkeepers to take on the role of managing the lighthouse and running a bed and breakfast.
Credit: Tom Butt
The job entails ferrying guests to and from the island, preparing meals, changing sheets, and providing tours of the historic lighthouse.
The mayor of Richmond, Tom Butt, who manages the lighthouse, is currently accepting applications from those who are interested in the position.
The job is not for the faint of heart, however, as it is incredibly demanding and requires a unique set of skills.
Couples with complementary skill sets are typically chosen to manage the station, as it is a demanding job that requires a lot of work.
“There are two key qualifications: One of them has to have a U.S. Coast Guard commercial boat operation license. And the second one is, we look for people with some culinary experience,” Butt said.
The workweek starts on Thursday at 4 p.m. As a licensed boat skipper, the innkeeper will ferry guests from mainland Richmond to the lighthouse.
Once on the island, the innkeeper will provide refreshments, dinner, and ensure that the guests have a comfortable stay in the well-kept rooms.
The next morning, the innkeeper will prepare breakfast and give a tour of the lighthouse, including the antique foghorn, the light tower, and the rest of the island.
After the tour, the innkeeper will ferry the guests back to the mainland, and then have the rest of the day to tidy the rooms and prepare for the next group of guests.
The pay for the job is $140,000, plus health coverage and insurance.
Additionally, the innkeeper will have free rent and food, which is a significant perk considering the high cost of living in the Bay Area.
The lighthouse is closed on Mondays through Thursdays, giving the innkeeper time to rest and prepare for the next week.
The post of lighthouse innkeeper is traditionally filled by couples, and in the past, large families have occupied the lighthouse.
In 2018, the lighthouse received thousands of applications from around the world, and after sorting through them, they ended up with just 60 qualified candidates.
After COVID-19 shut down operations at the lighthouse, they are once again looking to fill the position.
The role is a unique and demanding job that requires a specific set of skills and qualifications, but it also offers a unique opportunity to live in a stunning location with unparalleled views, surrounded by natural beauty and historic charm.
The pay and perks, including free rent and food, make it an attractive opportunity for those who are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required.
If you are a licensed boat skipper with culinary experience and are looking for a unique and challenging opportunity, East Brother Light Station may be the perfect fit for you.
