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Boating Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Marina Inc

Boating Instructor Captain

Highlands, NJ · On-site

$23 - $38/hr

Vision insurance Bridge Marina is seeking Boating Instructor Captains who can help new and experienced boaters develop the skills they need to safely oversee recreational boats up to 30ft on Raritan ...

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Boating Instructor information

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$6

$21

$39

How much do boating instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for boating instructor in the United States is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a boating instructor do?

A Boating Instructor is a professional who teaches individuals or groups how to safely operate various types of watercraft, such as sailboats, powerboats, or personal watercraft. Their responsibilities include providing instruction on boating safety, navigation rules, boat handling, and emergency procedures. Boating Instructors often work for sailing schools, marinas, or recreational organizations and may also conduct certification courses. They ensure that students gain practical skills and knowledge to enjoy boating responsibly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a boating instructor?

To thrive as a Boating Instructor, you need comprehensive knowledge of boating safety, navigation, and seamanship, often backed by certifications such as US Coast Guard Captain's License or state boating instructor credentials. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, VHF radios, and various types of watercraft is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for effectively teaching students and responding to emergencies. These abilities ensure safe instruction, foster student confidence, and promote responsible boating practices.

What challenges do boating instructors face when teaching beginners, and how can they be addressed?

Boating Instructors often encounter challenges such as students' varying comfort levels on the water, differing learning speeds, and weather-related unpredictability. To address these, instructors should emphasize safety, adapt teaching methods to individual needs, and maintain clear, patient communication. Building students’ confidence through gradual skill progression and fostering a supportive environment can help overcome initial apprehension. Additionally, staying flexible with lesson plans ensures that both student needs and changing conditions are met effectively.

What is the difference between Boating Instructor vs Sailing Instructor?

AspectBoating InstructorSailing Instructor
CertificationsBoating safety certifications, CPR, first aidSailing certifications, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentMarinas, lakes, water parksMarinas, sailing schools, open water
Employer & IndustryMarinas, water recreation centersSailing schools, yacht clubs

Both roles involve teaching watercraft operation, but a Boating Instructor focuses on general boat handling and safety across various watercraft, while a Sailing Instructor specializes in teaching sailing techniques and navigation. The certifications overlap but differ based on the specific watercraft. Both work in water recreation environments and serve similar industry sectors, making them closely related but distinct roles.

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What states have the most Boating Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Boating Instructor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Boating Instructor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Boating Instructor jobs are:

Boating Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Boating Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,459 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Boating Instructor Captain

Bridge Marina, Inc.

Lake Hopatcong, NJ • On-site

$23 - $38/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Responsive recruiter
Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Company parties
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule
  • Opportunity for advancement

Bridge Marina is seeking Boating Instructor Captains who can help new and experienced boaters develop the skills they need to safely oversee recreational boats up to 30ft in Lake Hopatcong and Raritan Bay.
In this role, you will provide both classroom education and hands-on training, teaching everything from boating fundamentals to advanced boat handling skills. Through patient coaching and clear instruction, you will help our guests become confident, capable boaters who can safely enjoy their time on the water. You will also have opportunities to serve as captain for our rental and club members.
Success in this role comes from being a skilled boater who genuinely enjoys helping others. You should be patient, supportive, and able to communicate clearly, with the awareness to somewhat adapt your coaching style to guests' needs in order to best connect. Your friendly, professional approach helps create an environment where learning feels natural and enjoyable.
If you're passionate about boating and find satisfaction in helping others develop their skills, while working with a dynamic team in a growing marina business, we'd love to talk with you.
Primary Responsibilities include:
Educational Leadership
  • Conduct hands-on, on-water training sessions (groups, individuals, and fellow staff) with our provided curriculum typically on 18-30ft boats.
  • Lead and proctor NJ Boating Safety Certification courses with our provided curriculum (existing certification is an advantage, we can assist you in acquiring).
  • Develop boaters from fundamental skills to advanced handling techniques.
  • Serve as captain for boat rental and boating club member experiences.

Safety & Quality Management
  • Maintain adherence to safety protocols and best practices.
  • Assess and verify student comprehension and skill development.
  • Oversee vessel and passenger safety during all operations.
  • Monitor and adjust training approaches based on student progress.
  • Provide clear, actionable feedback to support student development.

Guest Experience
  • Deliver friendly, professional instruction adapted to each student's needs.
  • Create supportive learning environments that build confidence.
  • Provide clear explanations and demonstrations of boating techniques.
  • Address questions and concerns with patience and expertise.
  • Support guests in achieving their boating goals.

Administrative Quality
  • Utilize our management software for scheduling and training documentation.
  • Maintain detailed training logs and student progress reports.
  • Communicate effectively across departments to ensure seamless service.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of training programs.

What We're Looking For
  • Dependable, trustworthy, and skilled professional
  • Patient, supportive, friendly personality interested in helping others.
  • Prior teaching, training, or coaching experience is an advantage.
  • A confident and clear communicator who can engage guests and teammates with approachability.
  • Strong situational awareness and judgment with commitment to safety
  • Ability to follow and adhere to established training procedures.
  • Demonstrated boating experience and expertise with boats up to 30ft and knowledge of local waterways.
  • Less experienced captains are encouraged to apply - our programs provide the experience and skills to help you develop, advance, and increase your earning potential.
  • U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License (minimum OUPV/Six-Pack).

What We Offer:
  • Stable work environment with growth opportunities within the organization.
  • Competitive compensation is based on experience, qualifications, and the specific roles you perform (e.g. proctor & trainer & captain rentals etc). Pay ranges from $23 to $38 per hour, with higher rates awarded for advanced skills and experience, multi-role capability, and increased responsibilities.
  • On top of base pay we offer travel expenses, boating access, and performance incentives.
  • Seasonal to year-round opportunities, part time to full time, 16-40 hours per week with weekday and weekend availability.
  • If qualify, benefits may include health, retirement plan with company contributions, paid time off, vacation and sick leave.
  • An exciting work environment with a supportive team atmosphere.
  • A growing, industry-leading, and innovative business that values its team, their contributions, and their ideas.
  • Bridge Marina is a team-oriented, guest-focused environment where safety, leadership, continuous improvement, and reliability drive our success. We value teamwork, personal accountability, and proactive problem-solving, encouraging our team members to take ownership of their roles, and support one another and our guests.

Learn more about us online at www.bridgemarina.com or on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok @brigemarina. We look forward to connecting with you.
More about us: Bridge Marina does more than just boats; it's a place where people come to learn to boat, to get on the water and to enjoy all the fun, entertainment and exploration boating can offer. We seek teammates who would enjoy working on and around the water, working with boats and boaters, and being around fun and energizing people. Each team member at Bridge Marina brings skills and passion to a fun, challenging and ever-changing environment on the water.
Bridge Marina inspires boaters of all abilities to get on the water. You can feel the energy and enthusiasm when you step onto our docks on a sunny summer afternoon. We have a team of diverse hospitality focused people who provide boat service, boat sales, boating club, boat training, boat rentals, slip services and more in Lake Hopatcong and Highlands New Jersey. Our team and company provides one of the most unique and inspiring boating experiences in the industry.
Compensation: $23.00 - $38.00 per hour
About Bridge Marina:
Bridge Marina has been helping boaters for over 65 years, and it is not just about boats. Bridge Marina is a place where people come to learn, get on the water, and enjoy the fun, entertainment, and exploration that boating offers. We have helped thousands of boaters get on the water. We're looking for teammates who relish the idea of working on and around the water, with boats and boaters, and being part of a fun and energizing community.

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