In jobs in Door County Wi—famous for its scenic shoreline, cherry orchards, and vibrant tourism—has become one of the fastest-growing job markets in the Midwest. Whether you’re a local job seeker, a student hunting for seasonal work, or someone planning to relocate for a slower, scenic lifestyle with strong career opportunities, Door County offers far more than charming views and weekend getaways. The region is experiencing a hiring wave across hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and skilled trades—and employers are urgently looking for dependable workers.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick glimpse of what this guide covers:
- Door County is experiencing strong job growth in hospitality, healthcare, retail, and skilled trades.
- Seasonal jobs remain a major driver, but year-round employment is increasing.
- Top employers include resorts, hospitals, shipyards, and local businesses.
- Both entry-level and high-skill roles are available with competitive pay.
- Door County offers a balanced lifestyle with community-focused employers and growing industries.
Why Door County’s Job Market Is Expanding
Door County’s workforce demand has surged for several reasons. Tourism continues to be the region’s largest economic engine, drawing more than 2 million visitors annually. With this influx of travelers, hotels, restaurants, marinas, and tour operations continually seek new employees.
But hospitality is just one piece of the picture. As year-round residency grows, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and community services have ramped up hiring. Add the region’s manufacturing sector—especially Sturgeon Bay’s long-standing shipbuilding tradition—and it’s clear why employers across the peninsula are posting openings faster than ever.
Unlike major cities, Door County offers a tight-knit, community-focused work culture. Employees often highlight flexible teams, scenic workplaces, and fair management as reasons they stay in the region long-term.
Top Industries Hiring in Door County, WI
1. Hospitality & Tourism in jobs in Door County Wi
Tourism powers a major share of the local economy, especially from May to October. The variety of hospitality jobs ranges from front-line roles to managerial positions.
Popular roles include:
- Front desk staff
- Housekeeping
- Restaurant servers
- Chefs and kitchen assistants
- Guest experience coordinators
- Tour guides
- Retail associates in gift shops and boutiques
Resorts like The Landmark Resort, The Edgewater Resort, and larger hotels in Sturgeon Bay frequently hire for both seasonal and permanent positions. Many businesses provide housing options for summer workers, making these jobs ideal for students and travelers.
2. Healthcare in jobs in Door County Wi
The healthcare sector in Door County is expanding rapidly as the resident population grows and retirement communities broaden.
Common positions:
- Registered nurses
- Certified nursing assistants
- Medical assistants
- Laboratory technicians
- Physical and occupational therapists
- Administrative healthcare staff
Door County Medical Center is among the region’s largest employers, known for competitive wages, strong benefits, and professional development programs.
3. Manufacturing & Skilled Trades in jobs in Door County Wi
Manufacturing in Sturgeon Bay—particularly shipbuilding—has deep historical roots. Skilled labor is always in demand.
Key roles include:
- Welders
- Machinists
- Electricians
- Marine construction workers
- Fabrication specialists
- Quality inspection technicians
Companies like Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding offer high-paying positions, apprenticeships, and long-term career tracks. These jobs often come with excellent benefits and steady hours.
4. Retail Jobs in jobs in Door County Wi
Door County’s bustling small-town charm means hundreds of shops, local businesses, and specialty stores are frequently hiring.
Typical retail jobs:
- Cashiers
- Floor associates
- Store managers
- Visual merchandisers
- Customer service reps
Retail jobs are ideal for those seeking flexible schedules and friendly work environments.
5. Education & Public Services in jobs in Door County Wi
With a growing community comes the need for educators, school administrators, maintenance staff, and government employees.
Common openings:
- Teachers (elementary through high school)
- Substitute teachers
- Paraprofessionals
- School bus drivers
- Custodial staff
- Administrative support roles
Local government positions also open regularly, providing stable, long-term employment.
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Jobs: What to Expect
Door County’s workforce is unique due to its dual nature. Although seasonal tourism jobs dominate in summer, year-round employment opportunities continue expanding.
Seasonal Jobs
Available from May through October
Ideal for:
- Students
- Travel workers
- Part-timers
- People seeking temporary work
Seasonal jobs often provide housing, bonus pay, and flexible hours.
Year-Round Jobs
Available across:
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Local government
- Education
- Retail
- Hospitality management
These roles are best for workers seeking long-term growth, stability, and benefits.
Top Employers in Door County
Here are some of the most well-known employers looking for dependable talent:
- Door County Medical Center
- Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding
- Door County YMCA
- Area hotels and resorts (Landmark Resort, Homestead Suites, Westwood Shores)
- Schools and government offices
- Manufacturing and marine construction companies
Average Salaries in Door County, WI (Approximate)
While pay varies, here’s a general overview of what workers can expect:
| Job Sector | Estimated Pay Range |
|---|---|
| Hospitality & Tourism | $13–$24 per hour |
| Healthcare | $18–$45 per hour |
| Retail | $12–$22 per hour |
| Manufacturing & Shipbuilding | $22–$40 per hour |
| Education | $16–$38 per hour |
High-skill roles in healthcare, trades, and management may pay above these ranges.
Why Workers Love Door County
Beyond employment, the region offers a lifestyle most cities can’t match. Locals enjoy festivals, hiking trails, waterfront views, and a strong sense of community. Workplaces emphasize collaboration, family values, and work-life balance. Employers also tend to support professional growth, making Door County a place where people build long-term careers, not just temporary jobs.
How to Find the Best Jobs in Door County
Here are the most effective places to search:
- Official employer websites (hospitals, shipyards, resorts)
- Local job boards (Door County Pulse, Door County Jobs Network)
- State job portals
- Facebook groups for local hiring
- In-person visits to local businesses during peak hiring months
Networking also plays a significant role in the county’s tight-knit community.
Tips for Getting Hired Fast
If you want to stand out, follow these practical steps:
1. Apply early for seasonal roles.
Spring hiring fills quickly, especially for resorts and restaurants.
2. Customize your resume.
Highlight customer service, teamwork, and reliability—high-demand traits in Door County.
3. Be flexible.
Employers value workers willing to adjust schedules during busy tourist months.
4. Showcase your soft skills.
Communication, problem-solving, and positive attitude make a strong impression.
5. Follow up.
A simple call or email can greatly improve your chances of getting hired.
The Future Job Outlook for Door County
Job growth in Door County is expected to continue rising thanks to expanded tourism activities, senior living development, upgraded medical facilities, and the growth of marine manufacturing. More employers are offering competitive wages, housing benefits, and year-round positions in jobs in Door County Wi. The region’s stable economy and strong community support make the future bright for workers in nearly every field.
FAQs
Are most jobs in Door County seasonal?
Seasonal jobs are common, especially in hospitality and tourism, but year-round positions in healthcare, manufacturing, education, and public services are steadily increasing.
What months are best for finding summer work?
Hiring begins as early as March, with peak recruitment in April and May.
Do resorts provide employee housing?
Some large resorts offer housing options for seasonal workers, especially students and travel workers.
What industries pay the highest in Door County?
Healthcare and shipbuilding tend to offer the most competitive wages.
Is Door County a good place to start a long-term career?
Yes. Many workers stay due to the balanced lifestyle, supportive employers, and growing year-round opportunities.