Kitchen Staff (Summer and/or Fall 2026) – Live, Work & Explore the Colorado Rockies

Locations: Estes Park, CO or Granby, CO
Pay: $15.16/hour | Seasonal | No Experience Required | On-site Housing Available

Trade Your Routine for the Rockies This Summer and/or Autumn

Wake up to mountain air. Spend your days surrounded by alpine lakes, wildlife, and endless trails. Finish your shift and step straight into hiking, stargazing, campfires, and new friendships.

At YMCA of the Rockies, this isn’t just a job. It’s a summer experience you’ll remember long after the season ends. Apply now as positions are filled on a rolling basis and availability may change, so early applications are encouraged.

We’re hiring Kitchen Staff for Summer and/or Autumn 2026 at three unique locations:

• Estes Park Center, Estes Park, CO: 800 acres bordering Rocky Mountain National Park
• Snow Mountain Ranch, Granby, CO: 5,100 acres of meadows, forests, and mountain views
• Camp Chief Ouray, Granby, CO: A classic overnight summer camp (May–September)

What You Gain

• A summer and/or fall living and working in the Colorado Rocky Mountains
• Valuable job experience in food service and hospitality
• New friendships and professional connections
• Discounted lodge room nights for friends and family
• A break from routine and a chance to try something new
• Access to all YMCA of the Rockies facilities, free gear rentals, ability to sign up for free passes for skiing, indoor climbing, and golf
• Memorable experiences outside of work through staff excursions like hikes, concerts, sports games, cultural experiences, seasonal adventures and more

Why This Job is Different

This role is for people who want more than a paycheck. It’s for those who want to live somewhere new, try something different, and make the most of a season.

You might be a great fit if you:

• Want to spend a summer and/or fall in the mountains (short-term living accommodations available on-site for $170/week if you are from outside the area, including dormitory-style rooms, utilities, internet, laundry, and 3 daily buffet-style meals)
• Enjoy meeting people from around the country and beyond
• Like staying active and working as part of a team
• Are open to new experiences and challenges

What You’ll Do

• Serving meals and creating a welcoming dining experience
• Assisting with food preparation
• Keeping dining areas clean, stocked, and organized
• Washing dishes and maintaining sanitation standards
• Supporting a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment

What You Bring

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong teamwork and customer service mindset
• Ability to stay on your feet and handle active work
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Authorization to work for any U.S. employer without visa sponsorship and ability to provide documentation (J1 Exchange Visitor category is eligible)
• Willingness to submit to a criminal background check and drug screening
• Ability to self-relocate to Colorado for the summer and/or autumn season

No prior experience is required. Training is provided.

Our Mission and Culture

YMCA of the Rockies is guided by the values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith. Staff play a key role in creating a welcoming environment where guests and coworkers feel supported and included.