A job's a job. I realize getting up early sucks, but you get used to... you'll be doing it for most of your life. And $9/hr ain't too bad. i made $3.35 in high school and my first job out of high school.
Not every job serves an obvious purpose. My new job has me jumping on a lot of different projects, none of which are near completion. I do see how they will help everyone out once they are finished, but right now they aren't helping many at all.
Step back and look at the big picture. We're all part of it. Hang in there... plus, it will look good on your resume.