Sailing Program Assistant

The Sailing Program Assistant is a part-time, non-exempt position that supports the delivery of Rocking the Boat’s after school and summer Sailing Youth Development Program.  Program Assistants work over multiple semesters with the 9th and 10th grade participants in delivering all aspects of the program’s sailing-based curriculum.  Up to four positions report to the Sailing Program Manager.  

 Organizational Background  

Rocking the Boat began as a boatbuilding afterschool project for high school students in the South Bronx and was incorporated as a 501(c)3 non-profit in 2001. Today, the organization, with an annual budget of over $5 million, is a hub of youth development programming that serves nearly 5,000 community members annually across three locations. The mediums of boatbuilding, environmental science, and sailing are paired with social-emotional, academic, and career counselling by a team of licensed social workers to have profound and lasting impact on participants.  Rocking the Boat became an accredited U.S. Sailing Community Sailing Center in 2018. 

Responsibilities  

• Facilitate learn-to-sail education to small groups of 9th and 10th grade students  

• Incorporate and promote Rocking the Boat’s Core Values into all aspects of program delivery  

• Actively practice and promote all safety protocols in the classroom, field, and on the water  

• Assist in leading day and overnight trips designed to introduce participants to new experiences related to Rocking the Boat programs  

• Collaborate with maintenance of the entire sailing fleet as needed, including plastic dinghies, wooden sailboats, and RIBs; other boating equipment such as engines, trailers, dollies, sails, and PFDs; foul weather gear and dry suits 

• Help lead sailing programs for local schools and community groups 

• Ensure appropriate use and care of all sailing-related clothing, materials, and equipment   

• Manage participant behavior to facilitate an effective and safe learning environment   

• Participate in other activities as necessary to fulfill the mission of Rocking the Boat 

Rocking the Boat Offers  

• Up to 40 Safe and Safe hours per calendar year, accrued at a rate of one hour of Safe and Sick time earned to every 15 hours worked 

• Salary ranging from $18 to $21 per hour, commensurate with experience   

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging  

Rocking the Boat is committed to creating an environment that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all applicants and employees. The organization strives not only to accept but to affirm and celebrate all identities.  Race, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability are not barriers to employment at Rocking the Boat.  Candidates should feel welcome to communicate any special needs or requirements to be accommodated throughout the hiring process.  

Requirements  

• High school diploma or equivalent  

• US Sailing Level 1 Small Boat Instructor Certification 

• Ability to teach dinghy sailing to a range of abilities from beginners to intermediate 

• NY State Boating Safety Certificate or equivalent powerboat driving certificate 

• Demonstrate the initiative and leadership qualities that lead to a high level of productivity  

• Ability to think independently while working as part of a team  

• Ability to communicate honestly, respectfully, and effectively with supervisors and co-workers  

• Spanish language skills a plus