ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sailing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Glencoe Park District

Sailing Instructor

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$25/hr

The Sailing Instructor is responsible for performing the duties outlined below. This is a part-time seasonal position that typically requires working up to 30 hours per week. The instructor is ...

LOS GATOS COMMUNITY

Sailing Instructor

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$23.65 - $35.88/hr

Sailing Instructor should have previous experience racing small boats or experience teaching youth sailing. Includes the following but no limited to: • Develop daily lesson plans making full and ...

Dartmouth College

Sailing Instructor

Hanover, NH · On-site

Position Details Position Information Position Title Sailing Instructor Position Number 0000000 Hiring Range Minimum $16.25 Hiring Range Maximum $18.75 Location of Position Enfield, NH Advertisement ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSailing Jobs

Sailing information

See salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sailor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sailor, you need strong seamanship, navigation, and safety knowledge, often supported by certifications such as a boating license or STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping). Familiarity with navigation systems, communication devices, and vessel maintenance tools is essential. Teamwork, adaptability, and quick decision-making are vital soft skills for handling the dynamic environment at sea. These competencies ensure safety, efficient vessel operation, and effective response to changing maritime conditions.

Is 30 too old to start yachting?

Starting a career in sailing or yachting at age 30 is possible, as many professionals enter the industry later in life. Success depends on acquiring necessary skills, certifications like STCW, and gaining experience, which can be achieved at any age with dedication.

Are there careers in sailing?

Yes, careers in sailing include roles such as professional sailors, yacht captains, sailing instructors, and maritime crew members. These jobs often require certifications, seamanship skills, and experience working in various weather conditions and environments.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Sailing Job?

To get a job in the sailing industry, you need basic safety training and certification. Commercially registered yachts have legal requirements for the crew while other boat qualifications vary. Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) training includes standard fire prevention and firefighting, first aid, and survival techniques. Maritime training is done through various organizations and employers look for applicants with hands-on experience. You also need a passport for any international travel. Other essential skills are knowing proper nautical terminology, physical stamina, and the ability to maintain calm under stress.

What are sailing jobs?

Sailing jobs refer to careers or roles that involve working on or with sailboats and yachts. These can include positions such as sailing instructors, yacht crew members, charter captains, deckhands, and maintenance staff. People in sailing jobs may work on private yachts, with charter companies, at sailing schools, or in boat maintenance and repair. Responsibilities can range from navigating and maintaining the vessel to teaching sailing techniques or ensuring the safety of passengers. Sailing jobs often require practical seamanship skills, certifications, and a love for being on the water.

What are some common challenges faced by professional sailors when working as part of a racing crew?

Professional sailors working on a racing crew often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, maintaining clear and effective communication with teammates, and executing complex maneuvers under pressure. The role requires strong teamwork, as each crew member relies on others for safety and performance. Additionally, long hours on the water and physically demanding tasks can be taxing, but these experiences foster resilience and camaraderie within the team.

What is the difference between Sailing vs Boating?

AspectSailing
Required CredentialsTypically requires sailing certifications or licenses, such as US Sailing certifications
Work EnvironmentOpen water, coastal or offshore locations, often involves navigation and weather assessment
Employer & Industry UsageMarinas, yacht clubs, charter companies, maritime tourism
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar recreational activities and skills involved

While both sailing and boating involve operating watercraft, sailing specifically refers to navigating boats powered primarily by sails, requiring knowledge of wind and navigation. Boating is a broader term that includes operating motorboats, kayaks, and other watercraft, often with different skill sets and certifications. Understanding these differences helps enthusiasts and professionals choose the right path for their interests or careers.

Can you get paid to sail?

Yes, sailing jobs such as yacht crew, sailing instructor, or captain are paid positions that involve operating or maintaining boats. These roles often require certifications like STCW or CPR, and may involve seasonal or full-time schedules depending on the employer and location.

How to get a job working on a sailboat?

To work on a sailboat, gaining experience through sailing courses, certifications such as STCW or CPR, and volunteering or working as a deckhand can improve your chances. Many positions require physical fitness, seamanship skills, and the ability to work in a team environment. Networking within the sailing community and applying to crew agencies or marinas can also help find opportunities.
More about Sailing jobs
What cities are hiring for Sailing jobs? Cities with the most 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 Sailing jobs? States with the most job openings for Sailing jobs include:
Sailing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sailing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.
Sailing Instructor

Sailing Instructor

Glencoe Park District

Glencoe, IL • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Spend your summer making memories and making an impact! The Glencoe Park District is a nationally accredited, Gold Medal Award-winning agency that offers fun and rewarding seasonal jobs opportunities. Join our team this summer and gain hands-on experience, build transferable skills, make new friends, and create lasting memories for Glencoe families!


Job Summary:

Under the immediate supervision of the Facility Manager, the Sailing Instructor is responsible for performing various duties to prepare the beach for the customers' demands. The Instructor also assists with the daily sailing lesson operations and rental hut.


The Sailing Instructor is responsible for performing the duties outlined below. This is a part-time seasonal position that typically requires working up to 30 hours per week. The instructor is expected to be available during the entire sailing class season, working mid-June through mid-August.


Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years old or older.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's Licenses and have a good driving record.
  • 1-2 years of sailing experience from an accredited sailing program.
  • Knowledge of advanced sailing maneuvers and ability to teach 5-10 participants at a time during a class.
  • Must possess CPR/AED/First Aid certification or willing to obtain within one month of hire.
  • Must possess a valid L. Boating Licenses.
  • U.S. Sailing Instructor Certification.
  • Must pass the Glencoe Park District Boat Training.
  • All employees must pass a criminal background check, which the Glencoe Park District will cover.


Required Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of public recreation philosophy with strong communication skills
  • Proven technical understanding related to the role


Required Skills:

  • Dependable and flexible, with strong safety awareness and sound judgment
  • Ability to understand and follow rules and instructions
  • Ability to read, write, and organize materials


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Instruct Sailing Programs

  • Work in a team with a particular lesson group (Beginner, Intermediate, Intro to Racing).
  • Coordinate and be the primary contact for all sail lesson programs such as Beginner/Intermediate/ Intro to Racing while coordinating all park district sailing classes.
  • Help develop a season lesson plan.
  • Keep attendance at all sailing programs and communicate with parents for any cancellations or issues regarding any sailing-related activities.
  • Help write daily lesson logs.
  • Must communicate with the Facility Manager regarding safety issues involving the park district sailing fleet.
  • Will coordinate and schedule all sailing lessons staff schedules throughout the season.
  • Create certificates or awards for participants in sailing classes.
  • Programs should include:
    • Basic Sailing
    • Rowing and boat retrieval
    • Knot tying
    • Basic boat maintenance
    • Emphasis on sportsmanship and respectful behavior
    • Protocol for the rigging and de-rigging of boats
    • Introduction to racing tactics
    • Introduction to racing rules
    • Teaching following S. Sailing Instructor Guidelines.

Instruct Adult Sailing Classes

  • Help develop a season lesson plan.
  • Attend and coordinate all regattas; report results to Facility Manager.
  • Communicate effectively with sailing staff and other GPD staff.
  • Listen to and incorporate, if appropriate and beneficial, the ideas and suggestions of the other sailing staff members.
  • Communicate appropriately to beach/boat staff.
  • Will communicate with participants via email or phone call before, during, and after class.
  • Provide direction and feedback to the sailing program participants.
  • Communicate effectively regularly with the Facility Manager.
  • Accept direction and get approval from the Facility Manager while taking the initiative to offer ideas for developing and implementing a successful sailing program.
  • Engage and encourage junior sailors.
  • Maintain boats and areas used by sailing staff and program sailors.
  • Coordinate and assist in pre-season and post-season maintenance of sailing equipment.
  • Coordinate and assist in the maintenance of park district-owned sailing craft.
  • Ensure that boats are put away correctly.
  • Complete routine maintenance on all sailing fleets and weekly and pre-class inspections (missing clips, pins, etc.)
  • Promptly report all damages to boats to the Facility Manager.
  • Assist with boat cleaning when required.
  • The program area must be clear of related trash and gear by the end of the program day.
  • Cleaning up after themselves in any areas of the beach that are used.
  • Follow water safety procedures.
  • Practice safe use of boats according to Glencoe Park District policies.
  • Enforce Glencoe Park District boating rules following the policy.
  • Will coordinate all private lessons and communicate with sailing staff regarding all staff schedules during private lesson time.
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures of the Glencoe Park District.
  • Assisted in setting up and organizing sailing classes.
  • Field and answer patron questions to the best of their abilities.
  • Participate in "community activities" such as the 4th of July or any sailing-related special event activities.

Hours:

Due to the nature of Park District programming, evening, weekend, and some holiday hours are to be expected


The Facility Manager might also direct the Sailing Instructor to perform other assignments not included in this job description, which is subject to periodic review and revision.


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work the Sailing Instructor performs. They are not intended to list all responsibilities, duties, and requirements.


Pay Scale:

This is a seasonal part-time, non-exempt (hourly) position. The intended starting pay for this position is $25 per hour, with a full pay scale ranging from $25 per hour to $50 per hour.


Final compensation will be determined in good faith based on an evaluation of the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the recommendation of the (Hiring Manager), or the (Dept. Head).


Benefits Include:

  • Park District Membership
  • Program and Rental Discounts


*To review the full job description, please contact the hiring manager.


Glencoe Park District is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the human resource manager.

Apply