Assistant Sailing Instructor; John R. Turney Sailing Center​/Seasonal

Assistant Sailing Instructor (John R. Turney Sailing Center)/Seasonal Employment

The John R. Turney Sailing Center offers guided sailing excursions, private and group lessons, sailing events, and rents a variety of sailboats. It is operational during the nine‑week summer assembly season. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 4 p.m. on weekends.

Hourly pay starts at $16.00 and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, may rise to $18.00.

• Assist the Sailing Instructor with teaching safety, boat handling, and sailing to groups and individuals in a variety of classes of sailboats.
• Follow the Sailing Instructor’s lesson plan, which includes dry‑land, on‑the‑water drills, and inclement weather activities.
• Report incidents and boat repair needs to the Director in a timely manner.
• Assist with maintenance of the fleet, including cleaning, inspections, and equipment upkeep.
• Identify, report, and address any safety issues.
• Know and review all emergency procedures; respond to emergency situations in accordance with policies and procedures.

Chautauqua Institution offers a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees who refer a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90 days from the first physical date of work. For seasonal positions working less than six months, the new candidate must remain employed for at least 30 days from the first physical date of work and until the season’s closing date, the last Sunday in August.

Seasonal employment begins annually in June and concludes in August. Schedules are flexible, full and part‑time, and may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The typical schedule is a five‑hour shift, starting between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., for a total of 20 hours per week. A weekend shift is required each week. Part‑time work may be available pre‑ and post‑season.

No employer‑provided housing is available for this position. Applicants should plan to secure independent housing or reside within a commutable distance.

Chautauqua Institution is a not‑for‑profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars: the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in its strategic plan. It is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices. Applicants will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA.

Learn more about Chautauqua Institution  and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan .org. Join our talent community online /employment. The agency encourages a diverse workforce and offers a traditional Chautauqua gate pass to employees, granting free access to many programs at the Amphitheater.