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Sailing Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

AB Seaman

Rogers City, MI ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Have you ever thought about sailing on the Great Lakes? If so, then this is for you. Key Lakes / Great Lakes Fleet is looking for Able Bodied Seaman (AB)Our Able-Seamen are members of the United ...

Able-Seaman (AB) - LMC

Ludington, MI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Be prepared to live and work aboard the vessel the duration of the sailing season, from mid-May to mid-Oct. Room and board provided. * Employee will stand a 4-hour watch, twice a day, 7 days per week.

Able-Seaman (AB) - LMC

Ludington, MI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Be prepared to live and work aboard the vessel the duration of the sailing season, from mid-May to mid-Oct. Room and board provided. * Employee will stand a 4-hour watch, twice a day, 7 days per week.

Emergency Medicine Physician

Saint Joseph, MI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Joseph River Yacht Club is known for it's sailing and swimming events, such as the annual Labor Day weekend Tri-State Regatta. St. Joseph also offers many quaint shops, restaurants, wineries, and ...

Emergency Medicine Physician

Saint Joseph, MI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Joseph River Yacht Club is known for it's sailing and swimming events, such as the annual Labor Day weekend Tri-State Regatta. St. Joseph also offers many quaint shops, restaurants, wineries, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Sailing information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$14

$20

How much do sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailing in Michigan is $14.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.35 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.

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

The most popular types of Sailing jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Sailing jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Sailing job openings:

Infographic showing various Sailing job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,737 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

AB Seaman

Keystone Shipping Co.

Rogers City, MI โ€ข On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Have you ever wanted a career in the Maritime Industry? Have you ever thought about sailing on the Great Lakes? If so, then this is for you. Key Lakes / Great Lakes Fleet is looking for Able Bodied Seaman (AB)Our Able-Seamen are members of the United Steelworkers and are hired through the company personnel office.**APPLICANTS FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE QUALIFIED AND POSSES THE CREDENTIALS NEEDED FOR THIS POSITION**All Key Lakes/Great Lakes Fleet unlicensed seamen receive room and board while employed aboard one of our vessels. We also provide paid vacation, pension, and medical. We strive to promote from within.All Great Lakes unlicensed seamen must meet the following requirements:Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) CardValid Merchant Mariners Credential issued by the US Coast GuardEndorsement as Able-Seaman on MMCCurrent USCG physical examinationLegally eligible to be employed in the United States (Proof of identity and eligibility will be required upon employment)You will not be considered for employment if you do not have the minimum documentation listed above. If you do not have those documents, please work on obtaining them and apply once you receive them.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro