Ever dreamed of living in an historic island lighthouse just a mile off the coast of Maine? The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR), in partnership with the Keepers of Burnt Island Light (KBIL), is seeking a volunteer caretaker couple to serve as seasonal stewards of Burnt Island Light for the 2026 season.

Located in scenic Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island Light is one of Maine’s most beloved coastal landmarks. The volunteer caretakers will live on Burnt Island for the duration of the season, welcoming visitors, sharing local maritime history, and helping care for the island and its facilities.

The selected couple will reside in the upstairs portion of the historic Burnt Island Keeper’s House, which includes private bedrooms and bathroom facilities. The downstairs level of the building operates as a public museum, and kitchen facilities are shared in the island’s Education Center. Access to Burnt Island is by boat only, and volunteers must be comfortable operating small vessels in coastal conditions. CPR and First Aid training will be provided. Please note that smoking is not permitted anywhere on Burnt Island.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Greeting visitors and fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere
• Providing tours and sharing the history and significance of Burnt Island Light
• Routine lawn care and light gardening
• Keeping island facilities neat, tidy, and presentable
• Serving as calm, courteous points of contact during busy days or challenging situations

Ideal candidates will bring:

• Proven boating experience and confidence navigating to and from the island
• A passion for history, storytelling, and Maine’s marine environment
• A friendly, kind, and courteous demeanor
• The ability to remain calm and helpful in stressful situations
• Comfort living in a remote, boat-access-only setting

“This is an extraordinary opportunity to experience life on the Maine coast while contributing to public education and the preservation of a treasured historic site,” said Bethany Trussell, representative from the Department of Marine Resources.  

For more information or to apply, interested couples are encouraged to send a letter of interest to:
burnt.island.dmr@maine.gov