Overview
MITA seeks two qualified island caretakers to help with the management and stewardship of two distinct State-owned islands in Casco Bay. One caretaker will be stationed on Jewell island, and one caretaker on Little Chebeague Island. Each caretaker will monitor recreational activity, provide stewardship services, and educate island visitors about low-impact camping on their respective island during the 2026 boating season. This is a five-month seasonal position that begins in May and ends in September (start and end dates are somewhat flexible).
Jewell Island — Situated on the outer fringe of Casco Bay, Jewell Island is 221 acres in size and features 2½ miles of hiking trails, 16 established campsites, sandy beaches, craggy bluffs and remnants of World War II fortifications. It has been a popular destination for recreational boaters for generations and sees over 2,500 visitors each year. Given its proximity to Portland, MITA routinely uses Jewell as a location for hosting volunteer work groups.
Little Chebeague Island — Connected by a sandbar to Great Chebeague, Little Chebeague Island is a highly popular destination for Casco Bay residents and boaters and visited by thousands of people annually. Now largely wild, the island has a rich history that includes summer cottages, a farm, a hotel, and U.S. Navy operations. Since 2010, MITA has been enhancing the island as a public recreational resource by maintaining campsites and walking trails, and managing invasive plants within its forests and meadows. MITA staff often coordinate groups of volunteers to help with the maintenance and upkeep of Little Chebeague.
Each caretaker will work five days per week and live in a minimally-outfitted small cabin on their island. MITA provides an 18’ motorized aluminum skiff, dock space and a mooring, a kayak or rowboat, and an assortment of maintenance tools. The caretaker supplies their own food and drinking water.
On-Island Duties:
Maintain trails, signs, privies, campsites, and other use areas
Manage on-island stewardship such as invasive plant control and marine debris cleanup
Periodically lead volunteers in island work projects
Serve as a friendly, helpful resource to island visitors
Actively encourage day users and campers to follow low-impact recreational practices
Observe, record, and report on island visitation levels
Educate visitors about island history, ecology, and recreational use guidelines
Monitor environmental conditions on the island
Work schedule:
Mid-May to Memorial Day Weekend: Orientation/preparation/training, work five days/week with weekends off
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend: In residence on Jewell and Little Chebeague islands, work five days/week including weekends and holidays with two days off mid-week
Labor Day Weekend to mid-September: Program wrap-up on island and at MITA office in Portland, work five days/week, weekends off
Required Skills:
Coastal boating experience (boat/motor/trailer operation, navigation, safety)
Excellent communication skills
Energy and enthusiasm for regular public interaction
Proven leadership and problem-solving experience
Demonstrated ability to live and work in a remote setting with limited amenities
Interest in environmental stewardship and education
Familiarity with Maine coastal and environmental issues
Knowledge of low impact camping principles
Good physical condition
Valid drivers license
Preferred Skills:
Education, volunteer coordination, and/or resource management experience
Trail maintenance or carpentry skills
Technical skills including equipment operation and maintenance (mower, hedge trimmer, chainsaw)
Knowledge of native and invasive plants
Wilderness First Aid/CPR training
About Maine Island Trail Association
The Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the wild islands of coastal Maine. We are privileged to steward a 375-mile water trail that spans the entire Maine coast, comprising over 240 sites available for day visits or overnight camping. As a membership-based nonprofit, we endeavor to advance environmental stewardship, responsible recreation, and sustained access to some of the most scenic natural places in our state. Consider joining our small, enthusiastic team in pursuit of a worthy mission!
