SUMMER* USCG Licensed Captain​/Educator

SUMMER USCG Licensed Captain/Educator

New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) is seeking a licensed USCG Captain to serve as an Educator for marine science and adventure sports. The role is seasonal, supporting programs for students ages 11‑17 with activities such as power boating, fishing, surfing, and other adventure sports.

As an MSAS Educator you will design and implement hands‑on, experiential marine science lessons across the Long Island Sound area. You will work within a team, provide leadership to students, and serve as an ambassador for NESS when interacting with students, parents, and staff. The position involves 40‑hour weeks, with occasional evening and weekend work. The schedule and dates are flexible at the discretion of the Director of Programs.

Seasonal position – maximum of 14 weeks (June 1 – August 28, 2026). Optional additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Director of Programs, including

• June 1‑5:
  Lifeguard certification course (participation determined by the Director)
• June 8‑12:
  Mandatory training week for all staff

• Designs and implements engaging, hands‑on lessons throughout the Long Island Sound area using powerboats.
• Is knowledgeable about NESS programs and serves as an ambassador for NESS when dealing with stakeholders.
• Exhibits a strong culture of safety, environmental stewardship, and customer service.
• Can operate with a high degree of awareness and knowledge related to assigned responsibilities.
• Works closely with other members of the NESS Education team to implement lessons on and off the water.
• Provides leadership to students and assists in overseeing junior instructors.

• Maintains campus and offsite safety at all times.
• Implements NESS’s Emergency Action Plan as needed.
• Assists in inventory and maintenance of watercraft, watersports equipment, and gear, including powerboats, kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, fishing gear, masks & snorkels, wetsuits, boogie boards, etc.
• Assists in classroom inventory, maintenance, and cleanliness.

• USCG OUPV 6‑Pack License (or higher).
• BA or in Marine Science, Biology, Oceanography, or a related science (desirable).
• Teaching certification (desirable).
• ARC Waterfront Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (Youth and Adults) (may be obtained at NESS).
• Instructor certifications in kayaking, surfing, and power boating (may be obtained at NESS).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

• Experience driving watercraft in Stonington Harbor area (desirable).
• Experience leading student‑centered and inquiry‑based programming.
• Skills and instructional experience in fishing, kayaking, power boating, marine science, and/or surfing.
• Effective written and verbal communication, problem solving, and decision making skills.
• Strong team player and excellent motivator.
• Ability to forge effective working relationships with NESS educators, operations staff, administrative staff, students, and parents.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Compensation commensurate with experience.

NESS is an Affir­mative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected category.

New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) offers a unique education model that empowers students with leadership, teamwork, confidence, and problem‑solving skills to ensure academic success. NESS delivers a STEM‑based curriculum that includes marine science, sailing, power boating, and adventure sports, and serves schools, teachers, and families in both urban and suburban markets. Our programs are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

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