Head Sailing Education Instructor

Position Summary:

Melbourne Yacht Club (MYC) in Melbourne, Florida, is seeking a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and organized Head Sailing Education Instructor  to lead our Sailing Education programs.

The Head Sailing Education Instructor will be responsible for managing and coaching youth and adult sailors in multiple racing classes including  Optimist Pram, Club 420s, Sunfish, and J22. This role focuses on skill development, seamanship, and building a fun, competitive, and safe environment that reflects the club’s values and commitment to sailing education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on-water and classroom coaching for all junior racing fleets (Optimist Pram, Club 420) and adult education classes
• Design and implement seasonal training plans with a focus on skill progression, race strategy, and team-building
• Supervise, schedule, and mentor assistant coaches and volunteers
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of sailing education program equipment and power boats
• Communicate regularly with sailors, parents, and club staff to maintain program alignment and progress
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and sportsmanlike culture across all age groups and skill levels
• Represent Melbourne Yacht Club at regional regattas and interclub events
• Coordinate team logistics including regatta registration, travel, equipment preparation, and communication with families

Preferred Attributes:

• Former competitive sailor (high school, college, or national level)
• Familiarity with Florida regatta calendar and venues
• Positive, team-oriented attitude and a commitment to sailing education and development
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Mechanical aptitude for small engine or powerboat maintenance
• Experience running community based summer camp
   

Schedule & Compensation:

• 40 hrs/week depending on regatta and practice schedules may vary
• PTO and health care stipend
• Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications
• Opportunities for private lessons, clinics, and travel coaching available
   

Education & Certifications:

• US Sailing Level 1 Instructor Certification (Level 2 or 3 strongly preferred)
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification
• SafeSport Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
• Florida Boater Card

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years coaching youth and/or adult sailing programs
• Prior coaching or competitive experience in one or more of the following fleets: Optimist Pram, Club 420s, Sunfish, or J22
• Effective team player within a sailing club or equivalent setting
• Experience supervising and mentoring assistant coaches and/or volunteers

Skills & Attributes:

• Strong knowledge of dinghy sailing, racing rules, and race tactics
• Confident and safe operation of coach boats in a variety of conditions
• Excellent communication skills with sailors, parents, and staff
• Ability to develop age-appropriate training plans and instruction
• Organized, dependable, and capable of managing regatta logistics
• Enthusiastic, team-focused, and committed to fostering a positive, inclusive culture

Availability:

• Must be available for regular weekday afternoon practices and weekend regattas during the racing season
• Flexibility to travel for regattas and occasional off-season clinics or events