Community Sailing Instructor

The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is seeking summer instructors for the community sailing initiative at the Monroe Station of the Chicago Yacht Club. There are many opportunities for professional development in specialized focus areas (marketing, boat works, event planning, logistics coordination). 

The right candidate will have extensive personal sailing experience, a passion for working with Chicago youth with an emphasis on Social Emotional Learning, and an energetic attitude!

The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to introducing the joys of boating to Chicagoland youth, with a focus on underrepresented communities. Its strategic plan aims to expand rapidly and positively impact thousands of local youth through four key activities:

1. Introduction: expose Chicagoland youth to boating and other water-sport-related activities each year;
2. Induction: programming to teach sailing and boating-related skills;
3. Development: programs developed to deepen their boating knowledge;
4. Inspire: through role models and scholarship opportunities.

Benefits: Hourly with 1.5 OT; competitive wages; housing stipend is negotiable 

Start date: June 9th 

End date: August 15th

Pay: $18-25 depending on experience

This is a learn-to-sail sailing camp that runs 5 days a week with week-long sessions all summer. Hours are roughly 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. There is a mandatory staff orientation week prior to camp beginning. 

Mandatory Qualifications: 

• Basic Keelboat Instructor Certification or Level 1 US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Certification or international equivalent
• Safe Sport Certification 
• CPR/First Aid Certification 

Other requirements include but are not limited to: 

• Ability to maintain a fun and safe learning environment; teach basic principles of sailing to a variety of learning styles and ages ranging from 4th grade to High School 
• Ability to confidently skipper Keelboats (e.g. J/100, Sonar, Colgate 26), including solo docking and mooring while instructing kids on board

The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer with a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Individuals of all genders, individuals from traditionally underrepresented populations, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

To be considered for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter. Materials should be submitted via e-mail and be addressed to: Caroline O'Malley Community Sailing Manager, Chicago Yacht Club Foundation communitysailing@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org