Duration
12 Months
Work Type
Culinary Arts, Rooms Division
Dates
Currently Closed
Wage
$15.00 per hour
Hours
32+ hours per weekYour Island Career Begins Here
[currently closed]
Lose yourself in the laid-back charm of Catalina Island. Just off the coast of Southern California, this glamorous retreat has long been a favorite escape for Hollywood icons and nature lovers alike. Now, it’s your turn to step into the story.
At the Santa Catalina Island Company, you’ll gain hands-on experience through either our Hospitality Management in Training (MIT) or Culinary Management Trainee program. Both are designed to help you grow in real-time while soaking up the magic of island life.
You’ll train across departments, connect with guests, and build the kind of career foundations that stick with you. All while waking up to sea breezes and winding down with coastal sunsets.
Even better, you’ll live where you work. Housing is provided, fully furnished, and totally free. Add a tight-knit team, some unforgettable excursions, and a location like no other, and this opportunity becomes something seriously special.
What You’ll Do on the Program
Hospitality MIT Track (Rooms Division)
- Rotate through core guest service roles including Front Desk, Concierge, and PBX
- Learn how to deliver standout hospitality in a relaxed luxury setting
- Pay: $15 per hour
- Schedule: Minimum of 32 hours per week
Culinary Arts MIT Trainee
- Train across all areas of the kitchen, from preparation to service and leadership
- Get exposure to culinary operations while building your management potential
- Pay: Fully sponsored program (only a $250 application fee + $30 bank transfer fee required)
- Schedule: Minimum of 32 hours per week
Both programs include career coaching, real-world training, and cultural exchange outings to places like Los Angeles and Disneyland.
The Santa Catalina Island Company has been the island’s hospitality heartbeat for over 118 years. From beach clubs to boutique hotels, it operates some of Catalina’s best-loved destinations.
You’ll get familiar with key properties like Descanso Beach Club, Pavilion Hotel, Atwater Hotel, and Avalon Grille. Off the clock, you’ll have access to 25+ outdoor adventures including ziplining, dolphin tours, hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.
Whether you’re shaking cocktails or checking in VIPs, every day comes with a new view and a new challenge. For more information, please visit www.visitcatalinaisland.com.
What started as a 6-month internship ended as a 1-year adventure, paving the way to the next stage of my professional career. My time in Californa was so exciting and action-packed, that I decided to extend my program to learn even more. Catalina Island was truly a great learning environment, where I have made memories for a lifetime and gained hands-on business management experience. To all future Yummy’s: Leave your preconceptions at home and arrive with an open mindset to make the absolute most out of your J1 experience! ” – Alex, 2016/17 Intern
Housing
- Shared co-ed housing is provided free of charge for the duration of your program
- Accommodation includes furnished apartments or homes with WiFi
- Expect to share a room with fellow program participants and live just minutes from work and the beach
