As a 6 month, live-aboard, the deckhand is constantly learning and evolving. And has the privilege to help the world develop a closer relationship with the ocean, through the course of our discovery-based school sails, fun adventures during summer camps, and all types of other public and private events.
The crew is called on to learn a wide range of skills to help run our ships, interact with the public as ambassadors of maritime excitement, and help our students to grow throughout their time with us.
Responsibilities
Support the Captain and Mate in ensuring that all deck operations are carried out in a safe and orderly manner.
Live and work aboard a tall ship while learning shipboard maintenance, including: sanding, varnishing, painting, cleaning, replacing rigging, and decking.
Instructing and overseeing students and volunteers in proper vessel operations. The ships are learning vessels so crew members are required to teach volunteers the duties and responsibilities of being crew members onboard the vessels.
Teaching educational sails: sail handling, water chemistry, marine ecology, navigation, ocean plastic pollution, mechanical advantage, knots, maritime history, and the physics of sailing.
Being a leader and role model during programming. It is our expectation that staff members maintain a professional attitude, work as a member of a team, enjoy working in an outdoor setting, and assist in creating a positive caring environment for all of our participants.
Willing to work long days, stand night watches, and be on-call 24/7 to help with ship needs
Other duties as assigned by Captains or Mates.
Qualifications
Experience or interest in teaching students
Sufficient physical strength and agility to carry out the essential duties of the role, including all boat-based activities, and lifting and carrying gear.
Degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Sciences, Education, or related field, preferred
Experience or desire to work in outdoor education, sail training, or informal education
Experience working aboard a traditionally rigged sailing vessel, preferred
Ability to pass DOT background check and drug test
Required Certifications
Medical: first aid/CPR, preferred
Lifeguard Certification, preferred
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift and carry weights up to 60lbs
Ability to stand and sit for long periods and perform tasks that require bending, stooping, kneeling, bending, twisting, crouching, climbing, reaching, standing, sitting, carrying, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and accessing small spaces on the boat
Ability to swim
Ability to communicate effectively – including visual, auditory and tactile, and ensure safety of the ship
Ability to work evenings, holidays, and weekends. Exposure to outside inclement weather conditions including summer sun, and some office conditions.
*The schedules of the vessels vary greatly. Offering a dynamic program of single-day experiences and residential programs, we strive to reach all youth in new and innovative programming models. Varying schedule that includes weekends and some holidays.
Compensation
Shared room and board
Scholarship and paid day (1)/wk
