Experienced Garde Manger - Summer 2026

Coons Franklin Lodge is searching for an Experienced Garde Manger to join our culinary team for the summer season of 2026. Located on the serene shores of Trout Lake, our historic lodge has been welcoming families and guests since 1892, known for its stunning views and exceptional dining experiences. As a part of our kitchen staff, you will have the opportunity to create memorable cold dishes and salads that delight our visitors during their stay.

As the Garde Manger, you will be responsible for preparing and presenting high-quality cold dishes, including salads, appetizers, and charcuterie boards. Your role will also include ensuring proper food storage and sanitation practices are followed and collaborating with other team members to maintain the overall efficiency of the kitchen. We are looking for someone with creativity and a passion for culinary arts to bring our culinary vision to life.

Join us at Coons Franklin Lodge this summer, where you can showcase your talents in a supportive environment while enjoying the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of a dedicated team.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Garde Manger or similar role in a professional kitchen.
• Strong culinary skills, particularly in preparing cold dishes and salads.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Creativity in presentation and menu development.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy items.

Benefits

The Employee Experience

One of the best parts of working at Coons is that we offer dorm-style housing. Some of our rooms are right on the water with breathtaking views of the lake.

Mornings are busy for our staff with our wood and ice service to each cabin, breakfast and lunch service, waterfront and housekeeping. Most staff is off in the afternoons before dinner service. This is the best time to be off work and either sitting on the dock, waterskiing or hitting the bike trails. Our most successful employees return year after year because of the hospitality and respect they are shown by the Coons family.

Ideal Candidate

An ideal candidate is someone who can take ownership over their job duties and operates with integrity and respect for themselves and their co-workers. The Coons family wants you to enjoy this little slice of heaven as much as our guests do.

Room and Board

We provide FREE dorm-style housing and 3 staff meals a day. We can accommodate most dietary requests.

Employee Perks

Fun Things to Do at Coons When Off Duty

We highly encourage all our staff to make use of the beautiful Northwoods and the resort activities available while not working. How often do you get to live at a resort?

Activities :

There is a beautiful trail winding throughout the resort property. Biking, jogging, and hiking are very popular. Everyone is welcome to explore. Basketball is a favorite.

Tennis Courts :

There are four courts on the premises. During the time the courts are not in use, all employees are welcome to take advantage of the courts. We ask the following things : Permission is needed, proper tennis attire is required (whites), tennis shoes only, no running shoes. Should any guest want to come and use the courts, vacate the court promptly and courteously.

Waterfront :

Trout Lake is one of Wisconsin’s finest. There are two docks located on the waterfront. The swimming dock is for guest use only. All employees are welcome to use the boat dock. Employees are welcome to use the following equipment : sailing, water-skiing, canoes, rowboats, and kayaks. No motor boats. You must check out all equipment with the proper resort personnel. Once again, guests have first preference.

Golf :

Trout Lake Golf Course is located 2 miles north of the resort off HWY 51. We get a 20% discount! For more information see : http : / / www.troutlakegolf.com / main.html

Yoga : Staff can join in our guest Yoga class In the Lodge, Tuesdays at 10am. You must pre-register with Emily or Sarah due to limited spots available.

Getting Here and Getting Around

We are located about 10 miles from the towns of Woodruff and Minocqua. I would say about 50% of our bring an automobile with them. There is minimal public transportation and biking on the highway is discouraged.

For Fun

Fun Things to Do in the Area

Music in The Park - Sunday Nights in Manitowish

https : / / manitowishwaters.org / things-to-do / music-in-the-park /

Big Top Chautauqua- Although a little bit faraway, but world-renowned musical venue :

https : / / www.bigtop.org /

Hiking

Map it Vilas County. Great app to find hiking spots to meet your needs :

https : / / apps.apple.com / us / app / map-it-vilas-county / id881933385

Biking