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Sailing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

asi

Aquatic Center Sailing Instructor

Rancho Cordova, CA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Instruct sailing classes as assigned and preform rescue when needed. * Perform safety inspection on sailing equipment. Perform minor repairs when needed. Notify facilities staff of major repairs as ...

asi

Aquatic Center Sailing Instructor

Rancho Cordova, CA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Instruct sailing classes as assigned and preform rescue when needed. * Perform safety inspection on sailing equipment. Perform minor repairs when needed. Notify facilities staff of major repairs as ...

Cal Sailing Club

Day Leader

Berkeley, CA · On-site

Company Description The Cal Sailing Club is a non-profit, volunteer-run sailing and windsurfing club that offers lessons, recreation, and free programs for the general public. Members can participate ...

Cal Sailing Club

Day Leader

Berkeley, CA · On-site

Company Description The Cal Sailing Club is a non-profit, volunteer-run sailing and windsurfing club that offers lessons, recreation, and free programs for the general public. Members can participate ...

San Diego Sailing Tours

Marketing Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Company Description We are a sailing charter company that takes out patrons on sailing tours around the Bay of San Diego. Our team hand restores classic sailing yachts from the 60's and 70's. We are ...

San Diego Sailing Tours

Marketing Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Company Description We are a sailing charter company that takes out patrons on sailing tours around the Bay of San Diego. Our team hand restores classic sailing yachts from the 60's and 70's. We are ...

Aventura Sailing Association Inc

Sous Chef

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$18/hr

In this role, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative menus and prepare delicious meals for our members only sailing club. Must maintain clean and sanitary environment. The ...

Aventura Sailing Association Inc

Sous Chef

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$18/hr

In this role, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative menus and prepare delicious meals for our members only sailing club. Must maintain clean and sanitary environment. The ...

Aventura Sailing Association Inc

Cook

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Line Cook Position in Dana Point Harbor Super friendly, members only sailing club looking for a team player for our clubhouse restaurant. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays 2:30PM - 9PM Sunday 11AM-5 ...

Aventura Sailing Association Inc

Sous Chef

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Retirement

In this role, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to create innovative menus and prepare delicious meals for our members only sailing club. Must maintain clean and sanitary environment. The ...

Aventura Sailing Association Inc

Cook

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Line Cook Position in Dana Point Harbor Super friendly, members only sailing club looking for a team player for our clubhouse restaurant. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays 2:30PM - 9PM Sunday 11AM-5 ...

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All JobsSailing JobsSailing Jobs in California

Sailing information

See California salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailing in California is $16.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are different types of 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 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 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.

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 I sail with no experience?

Sailing jobs often require some level of experience, but entry-level positions or training programs may accept beginners. Basic skills such as understanding navigation, safety procedures, and operating equipment are typically learned on the job or through sailing courses before starting a professional role.

How to get a job sailing?

To get a sailing job, gain relevant experience through sailing courses and certifications such as STCW or RYA certifications. Look for opportunities on maritime job boards, network within the sailing community, and prepare a resume highlighting your sailing skills and safety training.
More about Sailing jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Sailing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sailing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sailing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sailing job openings:

Sailing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sailing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,804 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Sailing Instructor

LOS GATOS COMMUNITY

Los Gatos, CA • On-site

$23.65 - $35.88/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD AT TIME OF HIRE. SALARY BASED ON VERIFIED PAID WORK EXPERIENCE

SEASON: WEEKENDS BEGINNING MID APRIL, WEEKDAYS BEGINNING JUNE 8


POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Recreation Coordinator, the Sailing Instructor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising sailing classes and summer youth sailing camps. 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 constructive use of scheduled program times, combining classroom and on-the-water lessons or activities

• Instruct a class of youth sailors with ability levels ranging from beginner to advanced

• Assist sailors in setting goals with a focus on progress and improvement

• Encourage participation and motivate sailors to a high level of commitment

• Physically assist sailors in launching, rigging and storing boats

• Drive an outboard motorboat to recover capsized or grounded vessels

• Facilitate minor repairs and daily maintenance as needed

• Perform seamanship tasks to include keeping boats, equipment, and storage facility clean and organized.

• Evaluate and document progress/improvement in sailing skills of class participant

• Maintain ongoing communication with participants, parents, staff and supervisor, demonstrating a sense of maturity and responsibility for the program

• Act as an appropriate role model and encourage the highest levels of sportsmanlike behavior.

• Take responsibility for ensuring a safe, organized, and educational environment.