Live And Work In A Black Bear Sanctuary In Northern Minnesota

Do you want to get away from all the noise in the world today? There are a couple of unique positions that have opened up at a bear sanctuary in Northern Minnesota. It's more than just a job; it's a wilderness lifestyle where you immerse yourself in the rustic Northwoods of Minnesota.

Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary is hiring for several positions for the 2027 season. You can help care for the sanctuary, support visitors, and keep things running behind the scenes.

What Is Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary?

The bear sanctuary, near Orr, Minnesota, has been operating for decades. Vince Shute was a local logger who had a problem with bears breaking into his cabins at his logging camp. The bears just kept coming, and he eventually found that the best way to deal with the bears was to coexist with them, feeding them to keep them out of his cabins.

Over the years, bears from hundreds of miles away started to come back every spring. It's become a bear sanctuary where visitors can see dozens of black bears in the summertime from an elevated platform. Guests board a bus from the parking area and are transported to the sanctuary and led up a gated walkway to the platform to view the bears and visit the retail shop. There are also special events like "Breakfast With The Bears."

Now Hiring: Sanctuary Grounds Coordinator

The Sanctuary Grounds Coordinator keeps the sanctuary grounds, facilities, roads, feeding areas, and viewing areas safe and functional. The coordinator is also responsible for training and leading seasonal interns and volunteers.

The salary is roughly $1600 a month, but also includes housing and all of your meals. A vehicle is provided for sanctuary-related activities. Living at the sanctuary means you'll be in a remote, rustic location. The job description says the accommodations may include limited electricity, running water, cell service, and internet access.

Read More: First Breeding Cougars Confirmed In Over 100 Years In Minnesota

Now Hiring: Visitor Center & Retail Operations Manager

This position oversees the day-to-day operation of the visitor center and retail duties. Once again, the job offers housing and meals along with the other accommodations. Leadership experience is preferred, and a successful candidate should be able to wear many hats and adapt to the needs of a small nonprofit environment.

Now Hiring: Interns

Interns and volunteers are needed every year at the Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary. To apply, visit the American Bear Association.