Junior Sailing Program – Seasonal Leadership & Instructional Positions

The Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the mission and programs of the North Carolina Maritime Museum. The organization partners closely with the museum to enhance maritime preservation, education, and community engagement. Through various initiatives, Friends of the Museum fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of North Carolina’s maritime history and traditions.

The Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum is seeking enthusiastic, qualified, and safety-minded professionals to join our 10-week, Junior Sailing Program team for the 2026 season. Positions are available at multiple levels based on experience, certifications, and leadership readiness.

• Junior Sailing Program Director
• Head Instructor
• Instructor
• Instructor-in-Training (IT)

The Junior Sailing Program serves approximately 250 students ages 8–15 each summer through two‑week sessions using Optimist Prams, O’pen Skiffs, and Club 420s. Our program promotes Safety, Fun, and Learning while developing confidence, skill progression, and teamwork on the water.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise all junior sailing instruction and daily operations
• Hire, train, mentor, schedule, and evaluate instructors and ITs
• Ensure safe operations and enforce safety and emergency protocols
• Maintain high‑quality curriculum delivery and skill progression
• Serve as primary point of contact for parents and guardians
• Oversee boats, equipment, facilities, and inventory
• Coordinate scheduling and staffing with Executive Director

Qualifications:

• Experience managing sailing or waterfront programs
• US Sailing Level 1 Certification (minimum);
  Level 2/3 or USCG license preferred
• Current CPR, First Aid, AED, Safe Sport, and NASBLA certification
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Powerboat operation and trailer towing experience
• College degree preferred

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide daily leadership to Instructors and IT staff
• Support curriculum development and lesson planning
• Ensure compliance with US Sailing, USCG, and Safe Sport standards
• Observe instruction and provide coaching and feedback
• Assist with equipment oversight and safety inspections

Qualifications:

• Strong sailing proficiency and prior instructional experience required
• Demonstrated leadership or mentoring experience
• CPR/First Aid and Safe Sport certification (required or obtainable)
• US Sailing certifications preferred

Key Responsibilities:

• Teach sailing fundamentals and water safety
• Implement lesson plans and lead small groups
• Maintain safe supervision and positive youth engagement
• Assist with equipment care and daily setup/breakdown

Qualifications:

• Sailing experience preferred; training provided
• Interest in youth instruction and outdoor education
• CPR/First Aid and Safe Sport certification (required or obtainable)

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist instructors with supervision and activities
• Support dockside and classroom setup
• Participate in training and skill development
• Serve as a positive role model for students

Qualifications:

• Interest in sailing and youth programs
• Basic sailing experience helpful but not required
• Willingness to learn and take direction

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to swim confidently and remain in the water when necessary
• Ability to lift and maneuver sailing equipment and small boats
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to remain active for extended periods

Certifications & Background Checks:

• CPR/First Aid and Safe Sport required within program timelines
• Background checks required for all staff and volunteers

FNCMM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.