Sailing Instructor - Yacht Club

Position Title: Sailing Instructor

Department: Sailing Operations

Division: Athletics

Reports to: Sailing Captain/Supervisor ➔ Sailing Director ➔ Athletic Director

Supervises: None

Company Summary: With over a century of rich history, the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club stands as a proud symbol of tradition, camaraderie, and a love for life on the water. While honoring our legacy, we also embrace a spirit of innovation driven by a desire to enhance our member experience in every way possible. We seek dedicated individuals who share our passion for hospitality and aspire to make a meaningful impact in our community. Whether you're a professional exploring a long-term career, seeking supplemental income, or a local resident looking for a fun summer job—we invite you to consider charting your course with us.

Position Summary: The position of Sailing Instructor is responsible for instructing members and their children on proper sailing procedures, ensuring the proper maintenance of sailboats, and overseeing the upkeep of dock facilities. Work will primarily be conducted outdoors, with exposure to varying weather conditions.

Employment Status: Most new and returning employees are hired under a seasonal employment status. Seasonal employees can typically expect a consistent schedule from approximately April to October each year. At the end of each respective season, employees are encouraged to submit requests to transition to either year-round part-time or full-time status. Approval of these requests will be contingent upon the needs of the Club and the employee's performance track record.

Qualifications:

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent experience
• Two or more years of experience preferred
• CPR/First Aid Certification required
  
• Ability to work flexible hours, including key holidays, evenings, and weekends
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Physical capability to withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, reaching, and twisting
• Ability to consistently lift over 50 lbs
• Valid driver’s license and a clean criminal record

Duties:

• Serve as a positive role model by:
  • Embodying Club values and high standards that all members and staff are expected to uphold
  • Effectively utilizing the various digital platforms used by the Club
  • Maintaining a collaborative and friendly demeanor while working to improve the member experience
  • Always representing the Club well

• Provide key assistance to the Club by:
  • Providing group and private sailing instruction, as directed by the Sailing Director, at all levels
  • Educating students on the proper terminology of spars and rigging, along with the purposes and function of each part
  • Developing and overseeing seaman-like discipline on the water, including safe boat handling and proper care
  • Supervising weekly races following the curriculum established by the Sailing Director
  • Supporting the organization of Sunday Sails, evening races, regattas, and other excursions
  • Communicating important weather information and student learning progress to parents
  • Maintaining accurate records of attendance, injuries, and boat damage
  • Leading, organizing, prioritizing, and delegating tasks effectively
  • Continuously seeking to enhance knowledge and skills
  • Demonstrating self-awareness concerning members’, management, and peers
  • Powerboat experience preferred
  • US Sailing Level 1 Certification preferred
  • Knowledge of and ability to perform the required role in emergency situations

• Evaluation criteria include but are not limited to:
  • Successful alignment with Club values and professional standards
  • Exhibiting a collaborative spirit when working with members and staff
  • Demonstrating the ability to make appropriate choices, especially in stressful situations
  • Maintaining good hygiene and a professional appearance
  • All duties as outlined in this position profile