Sailing Instructor

Description

Mystic Seaport Museum is seeking sailing instructors for our Summer Sailing Camps and classes. We have both a day and residential program. This position is responsible for daytime sailing instruction for campers ages 6-15 on Dyer Dhow, c420, and Pram/Opti sailboats. Sailing instructors are also responsible for mentoring Counselors-in-Training (Junior Instructors) on the water in conjunction with two Counselor-in-Training coordinators, and for implementing rainy day activities. The position requires great leadership skills and the ability to work well with children and teens. Sailing Instructors work Monday-Friday as part of the camp staff. A willingness to work a flexible schedule according to the needs of the camp is essential. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead by example as a role model who sets the tone for positive youth development.
• Prepare lessons for campers
• Maintain an inventory of all supplies and materials
• Assist with daily check-in/out of campers 
• Assists in day-to-day activities
• Maintain close communication with the waterfront director to ensure smooth program operations.
• Participate with activities and help facilitate transition times and supervise campers.
• Help prepare and clean powerboats and sailboats each week, and assist with maintenance as needed
• Assist with daily lesson plans and course setting based on campers’ abilities and ages.
• Assist with evening sailing programs.
• Instruct campers in sailing, rowing, seamanship, and maritime skills.
• Adhere to all camp safety guidelines.
• Mentor CITs and work with the waterfront director and CIT coordinator to plan team building opportunities for them.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• At least 16 years of age.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Current American Red Cross First Aid, and CPR certification (training provided).
• Connecticut Safe boating certification (or your home state’s NASBLA approved certification).
• US Sailing Level 1 instructor or sailing counselor certification (or willingness to obtain, training provided).
• Experience working with children and youth in formal or informal settings.
• Positive, enthusiastic and flexible attitude.
• Integrity, patience, adaptability, a sense of humor, enthusiasm, and a commitment to serve youth. 
• Strong problem-solving skills and an ability to adapt to changing program needs depending on weather, number of students, number of boats, etc.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Responsible and mature.

Desirable Qualifications: 

• Previous sail instruction experience
• Experience driving powerboats in an instructional setting (training provided)
• Experience with day or residential summer camps
• Experience mentoring teens/peers
• OUPV License
• Lifeguarding Certification
• US Sailing Level 2 or 3 instructor certifications
• Small dinghy sailing/racing experience

Physical/Mental Requirements and Environmental Conditions: •

• Deliver programs in venues that can be cold, wet, hot, or dirty; work outside in all weather.
• Position requires sufficient eyesight, hearing, and physical stamina to fulfill successfully the requirements of a Sailing Summer Camp program. 
• Weekend and holiday work assignments are required.