San Francisco Bay Lighthouse Looking For Innkeepers

RICHMOND, CA — A new job has opened up in the Bay Area. More specifically, a new job has opened up right in the middle of the Bay.

The East Brother Light Station, a bed and breakfast in an 1874 lighthouse located on an island just north of the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, is looking for two new “Keepers.” East Brother Light Station, Inc., the nonprofit that operates the charming Victorian inn, is looking for a couple to live on the island and manage the five-room bed and breakfast, which is open four days a week. Keepers will manage bookings, maid services, gourmet meals, and transporting guests from the mainland to the island.

“High-quality culinary experience and capability are critical qualifications,” according to the job listing. It is equally critical that at least one applicant possesses a Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential NMC boat operator’s license.

In exchange, successful applicants get to live for free in admittedly modest accommodations, a healthcare plan, a combined annual income of around $140,000, and some pretty spectacular views. They just have to be prepared for a few minor inconveniences, like no internet, wired phone, water pressure, or pets, and the occasional foghorn blast.

The lighthouse and lightkeeper’s house were built in 1874 at the entrance to San Pablo Bay, back when entire families lived on the island and lit the lighthouse with whale oil. The lighthouse became automated in 1969, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. In 1979, it was taken over by the East Brother Light Station, Inc. nonprofit, and began operating as a bed and breakfast in 1980.

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, apply here. The new keepers are expected to start in April 2025. If you like water pressure and/or have misplaced your Coast Guard license, you can still check out ebls.org for a unique staycation in the literal heart of the Bay.