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Head Sailing Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her highest ...

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... I. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her ...

FT Instructor

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$73K/yr

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her highest ...

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... I. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her ...

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... I. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her ...

SUPERVISION Reports to appropriate course Department Head. II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. USCG Officer Level License; with experience sailing under his/her highest ...

Head Sailing Instructor information

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$7

$16

$23

How much do head sailing instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for head sailing instructor in the United States is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Sailing Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Sailing Instructor, you need advanced sailing proficiency, teaching experience, and relevant instructor certifications such as US Sailing or RYA qualifications. Familiarity with safety protocols, fleet management systems, and maintenance tools is crucial. Leadership, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively guide teams and foster a positive learning environment. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of sailing programs and high-quality instruction for all participants.

What are Head Sailing Instructors?

Head Sailing Instructors are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing sailing programs, managing instructional staff, and ensuring the safety and skill development of participants. They design lesson plans, coordinate training sessions, and maintain sailing equipment. Additionally, Head Sailing Instructors often mentor junior instructors and serve as the primary point of contact for students and parents regarding sailing instruction. Their leadership ensures a high-quality and safe learning environment for all involved.

What is the difference between Head Sailing Instructor vs Sailing Instructor?

AspectHead Sailing InstructorSailing Instructor
CertificationsRequired sailing certifications, CPR, first aidSame certifications often required
Work EnvironmentLeads sailing programs, manages staffTeaches sailing skills, assists in lessons
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, staff supervisionDirect instruction, student coaching

The main difference is that the Head Sailing Instructor oversees the entire sailing program and manages staff, while the Sailing Instructor focuses on teaching students sailing skills. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the Head Sailing Instructor has additional leadership responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Head Sailing Instructor, and how can they be managed?

As a Head Sailing Instructor, you'll often need to balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on teaching, which can be challenging during peak sailing seasons. Managing diverse skill levels among students, ensuring safety standards, and coordinating with other instructors require strong organizational and communication skills. Proactive planning, clear delegation, and regular team briefings can help manage these demands while maintaining a positive learning environment. Building strong relationships with your team and keeping up with the latest safety protocols are also essential for success in this role.
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What job categories do people searching Head Sailing Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Head Sailing Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Head Sailing Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.

Program Supervisor - Assistant Head Sailing Coach

Lake Forest

Lake Forest, IL

$52K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description Are you passionate about sailing, coaching, and helping sailors grow. The City of Lake Forest is seeking an energetic Program Supervisor - Assistant Head Sailing Coach to help lead Lake Forest Sailing's community programs, youth racing teams, rentals, regattas, clinics, and special events. Lake Forest Sailing is a U.S

Sailing Certified Community Sailing Center focused on growing the sport and helping sailors reach their full potential. This full-time role works closely with the Lakefront Program Manager and Head Sailing Coach to support program planning, coaching, staff supervision, waterfront operations, and continued program growth. With coach boats, prams, Optis, ILCAs, 29ers, C420s, small keelboats, and recreational watercraft, Lake Forest Sailing offers a dynamic environment for someone who loves coaching, thrives on the water, and wants to help shape the future of a nationally recognized community sailing program.

Examples of Duties Assist with planning, coaching, and supervising community sailing programs, youth racing teams, rentals, regattas, clinics, and special events Coach and support race team participants while promoting a positive, safe, and welcoming sailing environment Recruit, train, schedule, supervise, and support seasonal sailing staff, dockhands, race coaches, and volunteers Coordinate youth racing logistics, seasonal training, travel, and race-related operations in partnership with the Head Sailing Coach Support Sailing Center operations, including equipment, supplies, rentals, facility use, setup, and maintenance coordination Assist with program budgets, purchasing, records, participation tracking, and program evaluation Respond to participant, parent, and patron questions or concerns in a timely and professional manner Help promote and grow Lake Forest Sailing through community engagement, marketing support, staff development, and program improvement Support citywide and department special events as needed Qualifications High school diploma or GED required; bachelor's degree preferred Experience teaching, coaching, or supporting sailing programs required; previous youth sailing coaching experience strongly preferred U.S. Sailing Level 1 Instructor certification required; Level 2 or Level 3 certification preferred SafeSport certification required, or ability to obtain Additional U.S. Sailing certifications, including Instructor Trainer, Powerboat Instructor, or advanced Keelboat training, preferred Strong communication, leadership, organization, customer service, and problem-solving skills Ability to train, motivate, supervise, and support seasonal staff and volunteers Ability to work effectively with participants, families, staff, community organizations, and other City departments Ability to travel frequently, tow trailers, and work weekends, after-school hours, and seasonal peak periods, especially during the March through November sailing season Valid driver's license required CPR, AED, and First Aid certification required within 90 days of hire and must be maintained Supplemental Information Why Join the City of Lake Forest

Be part of a recreation team that creates meaningful, active, and welcoming experiences for residents of all ages. Help lead a U.S. Sailing Certified Community Sailing Center that is focused on growing the sport and supporting sailors at every level

Play a leadership role in shaping the future of sailing in Lake Forest and continuing the growth of a leading community asset. Work in a beautiful lakefront setting with a team that is passionate about sailing excellence, community recreation, and high-quality instruction. Support staff development, continued education, program expansion, youth racing, community sailing, and waterfront opportunities that make Lake Forest a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Full Benefits Package Full salary range: $52,061 - $74,675, depending on qualifications Insurance: Medical (PPO/HMO), dental, vision Leave: 13 paid holidays, front-loaded vacation and sick time, parental leave Retirement: IMRF pension, plus 457(b) and Roth options Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, legal and life coverage, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, longevity bonuses, and annual merit bonus opportunities based on exceptional performance The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.