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Professional Sailing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dartmouth College

Sailing Instructor

Hanover, NH · On-site

Position Details Position Information Position Title Sailing Instructor Position Number 0000000 ... professionalism and collegiality through actions, interactions, and communications with others ...

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How much do professional sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional sailing 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 some common challenges faced by professional sailors during long regattas, and how can they be managed?

Professional sailors often encounter challenges such as fatigue, unpredictable weather conditions, and equipment malfunctions during long regattas. Managing these issues requires strong teamwork, effective communication, and rigorous preparation before the race, including physical training and equipment checks. Sailors also rely on clear watch systems to ensure adequate rest, and they frequently collaborate with support teams onshore for logistics and strategy updates. Developing resilience and adaptability is crucial for staying competitive and safe throughout the event.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Sailor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Sailor, you need advanced seamanship, physical fitness, and a deep understanding of navigation and meteorology, often supported by certifications such as RYA Yachtmaster or US Sailing credentials. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and racing software is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and quick decision-making are crucial soft skills for handling dynamic and high-pressure situations on the water. These skills ensure safety, optimal boat performance, and effective collaboration, all essential for success in competitive or long-distance sailing.

Are there careers in sailing?

Yes, there are careers in sailing such as professional sailor, yacht captain, sailing instructor, and marine crew. These roles often require sailing skills, certifications, and experience working in maritime environments.

Is 40 too old for yachting?

Professional sailing and yachting do not have strict age limits; many sailors continue their careers into their 40s and beyond. Success depends on physical fitness, skills, certifications, and experience rather than age alone, and many employers value seasoned sailors for their expertise and leadership qualities.

What is the difference between Professional Sailing vs Yacht Crew Member?

AspectProfessional SailingYacht Crew Member
CertificationsSTCW, sailing licensesSTCW, safety training
Work EnvironmentOpen seas, racing, long voyagesLuxury yachts, private charters
Employer & IndustryMaritime, racing teams, sailing schoolsYacht owners, charter companies
Job FocusNavigation, sailing skills, race participationGuest service, maintenance, safety

Professional Sailing involves competitive racing, navigation, and sailing expertise, often in racing teams or sailing schools. Yacht Crew Members focus on providing luxury service, safety, and maintenance aboard private or charter yachts. While both roles require safety certifications like STCW, Professional Sailing emphasizes racing and navigation, whereas Yacht Crew Members prioritize guest experience and yacht upkeep.

What is the highest paying job in the sea?

In professional sailing, the highest paying roles are often experienced captains or yacht masters, especially those working on large private or luxury vessels. These positions require extensive certifications, such as STCW, and often involve long hours and high responsibility, with salaries reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

How to get a job working on a sailboat?

To work on a sailboat as a crew member or captain, gaining sailing experience through certifications like the US Sailing certifications or STCW is essential. Many positions require practical experience, so volunteering or working as a deckhand on smaller boats can help build skills and connections in the industry.

What are professional sailors?

Professional sailors are skilled individuals who earn a living by competing in sailing races, working on yachts, or managing sailing operations. They often participate in high-level regattas, ocean races, or work as crew members on private or commercial vessels. Their responsibilities can include navigation, sail handling, boat maintenance, and ensuring safety at sea. Becoming a professional sailor typically requires extensive sailing experience, certifications, and a strong understanding of maritime safety and navigation. Many professional sailors travel internationally and work in challenging conditions.
More about Professional Sailing jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Sailing jobs? Cities with the most Professional Sailing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sailing jobs? The most popular types of Sailing jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Sailing jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Sailing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Sailing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Sailing jobs are:
Professional Sailing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Sailing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.
Part-Time Adult, Outreach, and Adaptive Sailing Instructor (J/22, RS Quest) - Park City, UT

Part-Time Adult, Outreach, and Adaptive Sailing Instructor (J/22, RS Quest) - Park City, UT

Park City Sailing Association

Heber, UT • On-site

$19/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

About Park City Sailing Association
Park City Sailing Association (PCSA) is a vibrant, community-focused sailing program dedicated to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community of sailors in Utah. We provide enriching experiences for sailors of all ages and backgrounds through outreach, boat access, racing, social events, and educational opportunities using our well-maintained fleet and quality facilities at the stunning Jordanelle Reservoir. Nestled in Utah's mountain paradise, just a few minutes away from historic Park City old town, our programs emphasize skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun amid breathtaking scenery and year-round outdoor adventures.
PCSA boasts an active sailing community with over 600 participants and 100 vessels. Our youth sailing school serves more than 30 junior sailors in advanced programs, while our Guppy program introduces the youngest learners (ages 5-7) to the joys of sailing. We're proud recipients of the 2024 US Sailing Outstanding Community Sailing Program award, the 2017 Robie Pierce Award for Adaptive Sailing, and we hosted the 2025 U.S. Adult Sailing Championship. Join us to spark confidence and a lifelong love of the water in young children in a supportive, high-altitude environment!
Position Overview
PCSA is seeking enthusiastic and experienced sailing instructors to lead and facilitate adult sailing classes, private lessons and visiting groups in keelboats (J/22) and dinghies (RS Quest). The ideal candidates will have proven sailing experience, a passion for teaching, and the skills to host positive, high-caliber sailing education with an emphasis on safety, fun, and learning. This seasonal part-time role involves primarily on-the-water instruction (with some classroom, dry-land) on weekdays, and evenings on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with opportunities to coach intro to racing for adults. The role also includes running classes for visiting camps, corporate groups and adaptive sailing lessons and events. The sailing season dates are May 18th - September 30th. This is a part-time, hourly position, based on demand, that can be fairly flexible. Additional hourly work opportunities may include working in Race Committee management, assisting in rigging and maintenance projects, and offering launch service and support to Access members. Ideal candidates for this position come from many walks of life (members, former students, sailing instructiors, to lifelong sailing experts). Living close to the Jordanelle is advantageous.
We offer competitive compensation starting at $19 per hour (based on experience; negotiable for exceptional candidates). Additional perks include financial assistance for required certifications, access to our fleet for personal use, as well as professional development opportunities.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as sailing instructor as needed for assigned adult sailing lessons and Outreach Program groups
  • Plan and lead structured on-the-water instruction of basics of sailing, fundamental seamanship, boat handling, and basic racing skills
  • Conduct land-based instruction on fundamental skills, sailing theory, knots, rigging, safety, and sportsmanship
  • Maintain active supervision of sailors on docks and on the water while enforcing PFD compliance and safety rules at all times
  • Provide progressive skill development aligned with PCSA curriculum
  • Assess and provide positive/constructive feedback to sailors while helping beginner sailors build confidence and comfort on the water
  • Track skill progression and recommend advancement levels
  • Operate safety boats in accordance with US Sailing best practices
  • Report safety concerns immediately
  • Promote sportsmanship, teamwork, inclusivity, and a safe training environment, adhering to US Sailing and SafeSport standards.
  • Update maintenance management system
  • Assist with fleet maintenance, rigging/de-rigging, and equipment care as needed while maintaining clean docks and classrooms
  • Participate in staff meetings and training sessions
  • Document and report incidents in accordance with policy
Required qualifications
  • Demonstrated sailing experience and ability to teach adult and/or adaptive sailing classes
  • Good leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to operate small powerboats safely in variable conditions
  • State Boating Safety Certificate (or equivalent)
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Current First Aid & CPR/AED Certification (or willingness to obtain with PCSA financial support).
  • Clean background check
  • Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and move between dock, classroom, and administrative areas frequently
  • Authorization to work in the United States (we unfortunately cannot provide sponsorship).
Preferred qualifications
  • US Sailing Small Boat Level 1 certification or US Sailing Keelboat Instructor Certification (or willingness to obtain with PCSA financial support)
  • Other relevant or equivelant certifications for sailing competency
  • Additional water safety certifications (e.g., lifeguard, basic keelboat knowledge)
Benefits
  • Competitive hourly rate starting at $19 (negotiable based on experience)
  • Access to PCSA's fleet (including J22s, RS Quests, and other boats) for personal sailing
  • Opportunity to work in an award-winning, inclusive program with scholarships available
More information
For questions, contact Scott VerMerris at (216) 401-2351 or email us at operations@sailpc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis-apply today to join our dynamic team!
For more about PCSA, visit sailpc.org and our Adult Programs web page.
PCSA is firmly committed to and actively supports the goal of Equal Employment Opportunity. PCSA will comply with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity laws and regulations including but not limited to the applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). See our full set of employee policies and practices in our Employee Handbook.

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