Indian River Marina—Delaware’s largest—offers a one-of-a-kind coastal hospitality experience for boaters, diners, vacationers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With 294 slips on a floating dock system, 154 indoor dry-storage racks, a monitored summer boat ramp with shuttle service, and stunning waterfront event space, the marina is a vibrant hub of guest activity. On-site amenities include Hook’em & Cook’em’s full-service bait and tackle shop with fish cleaning and a fresh seafood market, the lively Dockside restaurant featuring a boat bar and live entertainment, and twelve waterfront rental cottages that welcome visitors with exceptional views. Guests can also enjoy the scenic Burton Island Trail, offering peaceful walks along the inlet.
Position Overview
The Hospitality Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting day-to-day guest services and operations across the marina’s hospitality areas, including waterfront cottages, guest amenities, and general marina grounds. This role is ideal for students interested in hospitality management, resort operations, recreation services, or event and guest experience coordination.
Interns will also participate in intern-wide professional development activities and experiential learning opportunities that may require them to be off-site or away from their placement. Each intern will complete a personalized “demonstration of learning” project. At the conclusion of the internship, all interns will present their projects during a poster session for peers and Delaware State Parks staff.
Responsibilities
-Support a welcoming, guest-focused environment throughout the marina.
-Assist with daily inspections of docks and marina amenities, ensuring they are clean, safe, and guest-ready.
-Includes checking dock conditions, power pedestals, dock boxes, bird lines, and signage.
-Maintain the appearance of the marina grounds, including flower beds, landscaped areas, and public spaces.
-Transplant, water, and maintain seasonal plants to enhance the guest experience.
-Monitor overall cleanliness of marina grounds, including routine trash pick-up.
-Assist with the hospitality operations of the waterfront cottages:
-Inspect cottages for maintenance concerns and coordinate with the Merit maintenance team.
-Ensure cleanliness standards are met by collaborating with the contracted cleaning company.
-Wash and rotate linens to support efficient cottage turnover.
-Provide courteous, knowledgeable customer service to boaters, cottage guests, restaurant visitors, and trail users.
-Distribute park and marina information to guests, offering guidance on amenities, activities, and services.
-Assist at the boat ramp as needed, supporting a smooth and friendly visitor experience.
-Work independently and maintain professionalism and a positive attitude.
-Other duties as assigned to support overall guest satisfaction and site operations.
Required Skills
-Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet hospitality and guest service needs.
-Comfortable working in outdoor environments, including hot and humid conditions.
-Professional appearance and demeanor; reliable, courteous, and customer-focused.
-Enjoys interacting with visitors and providing high-quality customer service.
-Works well independently and as part of a collaborative team.
-Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 10 pounds.
-Comfortable working around boats and water.
-Adheres to Division and Park Customer Service and Safety Guidelines at all times.